The Qubit Bot robotics team recently had the privilege of hosting a virtual outreach session with Jessica Cole, Managing Director of PMO and Operations at SHI International Corp. This enlightening event provided the team with invaluable insights on effective communication and professional interaction. Jessica’s session was structured around two key themes: her communication mantra of “Be Bright, Be Brief, and Be Gone” and the STAR method for structured responses. These lessons are poised to significantly enhance the team’s performance in judging sessions and day-to-day interactions.
Be Bright, Be Brief, and Be Gone
Jessica began by introducing her communication mantra: “Be Bright, Be Brief, and Be Gone.” This principle encourages presenters to convey their messages enthusiastically (“bright”), concisely (“brief”), and respectfully, allowing others the opportunity to contribute (“be gone”). Jessica emphasized that rambling dilutes the impact of a message and can disengage the audience. Instead, clear, focused, and energetic communication ensures the message is both understood and remembered.
Jessica’s guidance resonated deeply with the Qubit Bot team as they recognized the importance of clarity and brevity in maintaining an audience’s attention. This approach is particularly vital during the high-pressure environment of judging presentations, where time is limited and impactful communication is key.
The STAR Method for Effective Communication
To complement her mantra, Jessica introduced the STAR method, a structured framework designed to organize responses effectively. The STAR method consists of:
Situation/Task
Provide context by describing the situation or task at hand.
Action
Detail the specific actions taken to address the situation or task.
Result
Highlight the outcomes of these actions.
Jessica guided the team through several practice exercises, applying the STAR method to potential judging questions. This hands-on approach helped the team internalize the framework and demonstrated its practical applications.
Practice Makes Perfect: Applying STAR
The team engaged in several exercises to hone their STAR responses:
Robot Design Process
- Situation/Task: The team faced three key challenges in the competition: hanging, manipulating specimens, and scoring in baskets.
- Action: They developed a robot design that prioritized efficient cycling between scoring zones.
- Result: The resulting robot maximized point-scoring potential and showcased innovative engineering.
Problem-Solving Scenario
- Situation/Task: The robot’s lift system was consuming excessive power, causing motor issues.
- Action: The team experimented with battery replacements and implemented switches to regulate power flow.
- Result: They developed a reliable solution that prevented motor burnout, demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Impact on Other Teams
- Situation/Task: The team’s goal was to embody FIRST’s value of gracious professionalism by supporting other teams.
- Action: They mentored rookie teams, including establishing a new team at a local Buddhist temple and assisting with software and CAD.
- Result: Their mentorship fostered skill development in other teams and strengthened the local robotics community.
Gracious Professionalism in Action
During the session, the team reflected on their efforts to exemplify gracious professionalism. They shared how their outreach activities, such as mentoring younger teams and sharing resources, have cultivated a supportive and collaborative environment. Jessica’s feedback helped them identify areas for improvement, reinforcing their commitment to this core FIRST value.
Key Takeaways
Jessica Cole’s insights equipped the Qubit Bot team with practical tools to enhance their communication skills. By adopting the “Be Bright, Be Brief, and Be Gone” approach, they can deliver engaging and impactful presentations. The STAR method provides a reliable structure for articulating their experiences and achievements, ensuring clarity and confidence.
This session was a transformative experience for the Qubit Bot team, strengthening their communication capabilities and reinforcing their commitment to continuous improvement. As they prepare for the upcoming FIRST FTC season, Jessica’s lessons will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their journey to success.
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