Everyday Micro-Activities: Two Instructors, Two Complementary Approaches
Everyday Micro-Activities: Two Instructors, Two Complementary Approaches
Developing transferable skills is, above all, about small actions repeated every day. Two Afi U. instructors invite us to explore this through their complementary perspectives. Isabelle focuses on the relational and authentic dimension of our professional interactions, while Marc shows how digital tools can amplify these same actions. Together, they demonstrate that when practiced intentionally, these micro-actions can sustainably strengthen collaboration and performance.
1. Preparing a Meeting
Isabelle:
“I start with a question that brings everyone together around the topic of the day. One minute is enough to create engagement.”
Marc:
“With Copilot in Microsoft Teams, I pull key points from previous meetings to quickly clarify where we stand.”
Preparing an effective meeting requires both strong interpersonal skills and a strategic use of digital tools.
2. Active Listening
Isabelle:
“Before responding, I rephrase what I’ve understood. It helps avoid misunderstandings and shows that I’m truly present.”
Marc:
“I use OneNote as a listening notebook: I capture key points and review my own wording to ensure I’ve understood the intent.”
Active listening is a core skill in management, communication, and collaboration.
3. Giving Feedback
Isabelle:
“Sincere feedback can shift team dynamics. For example: ‘Your input really clarified the discussion; it was impactful.’”
Marc:
“I send a short message in Teams to acknowledge a colleague’s contribution. It reinforces recognition within the team.”
Providing constructive feedback drives engagement, accountability, and team performance.
4. Exploring an Idea
Isabelle:
“I assign someone as an observer to bring additional depth to the discussion. It stimulates creativity.”
Marc:
“In PowerPoint with Copilot, I generate multiple visual options and ask the team: which one resonates most, and why?”
Creativity and critical thinking are strengthened when supported by well-mastered digital tools.
5. Making a Decision
Isabelle:
“Before concluding, I ask: is there an option or idea we may have overlooked? It broadens perspectives and reduces blind spots.”
Marc:
“I use Copilot in Excel for an initial analysis, then I challenge the results: what could be skewing this outcome?”
Sound decision-making requires both human judgment and analytical capability.
Developing Skills in the Digital Era
Human strengths bring listening, creativity, and nuance. Digital tools provide speed, memory, and amplification. When these two dimensions come together, they turn small actions into lasting performance drivers.
At Afi U., our annual programming offers training in leadership, professional communication, Microsoft 365 and Copilot, data analysis with Excel, and digital collaboration.
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