Where you sit may say more about you than you think.
At home, the decision is relatively easy. Most of us have a regular place where we sit at the dinner table or while watching TV. And if someone takes that spot, look out. An Archie Bunker situation might arise. Meathead.
But what about at work, or at church, or at a meeting of some sort? That’s where things get interesting.
According to Psychology Today, sitting in the end seat shows you are the leader, or that you are in control, or that you might even be there to intimidate. Those are not shockers.
If you are in a middle seat, you may be sending a message that you are a part of the team, that you are approachable, or that you are there to collaborate. Makes sense to me.
Meanwhile, other positions may suggest meanings that are not as obvious. According to Wisestep, the most important tip is to be punctual so you can choose your seat. Then pick the spot with the best view, which means the “safest back area, best sight of windows, doors, other meeting attendees, projection or video screen.” The article also states that, if you are trying to influence someone at the meeting, you should sit “where you can directly view each other and exchange eye contacts.”
The article continues by suggesting you should avoid seats close to windows, as they may become a constant distraction and cause you to miss out on a significant point.
If all this seems like too much to remember, the writers suggests you simply ask the host or the leader of the meeting where you should sit.
I had a boss who was particular about seating arrangements, especially at dinner meetings. He would have it all planned out in advance, being sure to connect the right people with each other. It worked for him.
Another boss was ingenious at picking out seats for himself at conferences or training sessions that were close to the exit doors. If the topics became boring, or if he became stuck with people he didn’t want to be around, he would be able to leave quickly… and quietly.
Bottom line, we can all accomplish more by choosing appropriate seats, and we can learn about others’ motivation by observing how they do, too.
Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital editions
shane@dmcityview.com
641-755-2115