Reference no: EM132467993

The term "left-hand column" (abbreviated LHC) comes from an exercise that is used to examine what is thought about during a conversation but what is not said out loud. In other words, you think it, but you don't say it! The left-hand column is the name of a tool that comes from the premise that during a conversation, two discussions are actually going on at one time.

One conversation is explicit, as it consists of words that are actually spoken out loud throughout the conversation. The other conversation consists of what each person is thinking and feeling but not saying out loud. This "tool" helps us to study our conversations so that we communicate more effectively. We can redesign what we say versus what we think.  

In this project assignment, we will develop a left-hand column chart and analyze the results to demonstrate positive change in decision processes in the workplace.  

Prepare your responses in a Word document. You do not need to use any additional resources, but you may and should use your textbook. Include a cover page and a reference page for your textbook. Your report should be approximately three (3) pages, not including the cover page and the reference page. The left-hand column chart is part of the 3 pages.  

Left-Hand Column Project Instructions:

Summarize (debrief) an encounter or conversation that is important to you but did not go well. You might also prepare for an anticipated and challenging conversation. This left-hand column method will unearth how to best translate private conversation (within yourself) to public dialogue with other people. 

Step One (The chart serves as your introduction):  

Prepare a "left- hand column" by filling out this chart. The LHC lists what was not said. Insert this chart into your word document.  

Left-Hand ColumnLHC - Thoughts and Feelings You Did Not SayWhat Was Said by BOTH Parties

Step Two:

List all of the consequences of the conversation that are of concern to you. 

Step Three:

Explain both columns in detail to help you and your audience understand the entire situation. By reading the debrief, one should be able to experience the situation itself.

Step Four (Your concluding analysis):  

After analyzing the LHC and what was actually said, as well as what was not said, how should you handle the LHC? You have three options: 

• Dump it (unload on the other person) 
• Bury it (do not unload; you hold onto your thoughts) 
• Process it (share your opinions but explore those of the other people involved)