In a Moment, But Not Yet

Product Description
A Priceless Gem:
Do you have one of those “gems” in your bag of tricks that is so simple and so wonderful that you use it all the time and can’t believe you didn’t come up with it yourself? That’s what this one is for me. Many of you already use this, and one of you introduced it to me a few years ago. (I think it was Steve “Cheesehead” Silbermann or Scott “Simon Sez” Gurst). Thank you!
Okay, here’s the scenario. You’re standing in front of a group, having just introduced the basic concept and goals of an activity. During your explanation, you say something like, “When I say ‘Go,’ you will then -–.“ Suddenly, you’ve lost control of the group. The chatter begins. People start milling around. Chairs are scraping the floor. And no one is listening to what you are saying. You spend the next 3 to 5 minutes yelling, “Wait! Come back. I’m not done.” You try in vain to get the focus back so that everyone hears what they need to know -- only to have déjà vu all over again.
Here’s THE GEM: “In a moment, BUT NOT YET…”
That’s it. So simple. So easy to remember. And, most importantly, it gets and keeps the group’s attention. Obviously, the “but not yet” is key and should be stressed -- and sometimes you will need to say it twice. I will pause before and after the “but not yet” and usually raise an eyebrow for effect. I often get a chuckle or two. Have fun with it.
Example: “In a moment [slight pause], but not yet…[eyebrow raise], I am going to say a two-letter word that begins with ‘g’ and ends with ‘o’ indicating that you may begin the activity – and begin talking.”
Give it a try and let me know how it goes. Keep the wheels spinning!
Linda Williams
Trainer, Facilitator, & Spare Tire,
Linda@Training-Wheels.com