15 Leading Effective Team Conversations (2.5.1)

In Video 2.1: Group Leadership Skills, communication coach Alex Lyon explains how group discussions can become more engaging and productive when leaders step back and allow team members to speak to each other—not just to the leader. He compares two common patterns of discussion: the zip line, where all comments go through the leader, and the web, where participants respond to each other directly. While watching, consider which techniques might work best in your current or future workplace. Consider which techniques you could try now, whether at work, in the classroom, or even in your personal life.

Video 2.1: Group Leadership Skills | Running Time: 3:23

^{Group Leadership Skills Part 1 | Published by Communication Coach Alexander Lyon | Dec 2, 2016}

Lyon encourages leaders to set the tone early by introducing the web model—using a physical ball as a symbol of how discussion should move around the group. This simple visual helps establish the expectation that everyone should participate and listen to one another. By resisting the urge to respond to every comment, leaders can foster more dynamic, collaborative conversations. This approach not only improves engagement but also builds team communication skills over time.

As a student of managerial communication, think about how you might apply this concept in your own team settings—in a classroom project, a workplace meeting, or future leadership role. How can you encourage more balanced group interactions? What steps can you take to create space for others to contribute and connect with one another directly?

Reflecting on and practicing these skills will help you become a more effective, inclusive communicator and team leader.