Heard, Seen, Respected
Heard, Seen, Respected (HSR) is a paired listening exercise where participants take turns sharing a story about a time they felt they were not heard, not seen, or not respected. It sounds simple. But the effect can be profound, because most people rarely experience being listened to without interruption.
✓ Created by former KPMG & McKinsey consultants
What You'll Achieve with the Heard, Seen, Respected Workshop
Real outcomes that transform your team
Enhanced trust and rapport among team members.
Improved communication skills through active listening.
Increased awareness of common feelings of being unheard or disrespected.
When to Use the Heard, Seen, Respected Workshop
Perfect for these situations and team challenges
When a team has been through a difficult period and needs space to be heard.
During post-merger integration where trust has eroded.
How the Heard, Seen, Respected Workshop Works
A step-by-step breakdown of the workshop process
1Setup
Arrange chairs in pairs facing each other with space between. Prepare a timer and decide if pairs will be assigned or self-selected.
2Step 1: Frame the Exercise
Introduce the workshop by explaining its purpose and the roles of storytellers and listeners. Emphasize confidentiality and set the emotional tone.
3Step 2: First Sharing Round
Participants take turns sharing their stories for seven minutes, with the listener remaining silent and present, fostering a deep listening experience.
4Step 3: Second Sharing Round
Participants switch roles, allowing the second storyteller to share their experience in the same uninterrupted manner, promoting an equal exchange.
Key Topics Covered in the Heard, Seen, Respected Workshop
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