Improving Communication using the Meta Model Krista Powell Edwards MA Chartered MCIPD CertNLP
Humanistics Consultancy and Development
Overview We will consider What is the Meta Model What are its uses and benefits The prerequisites to using the Meta Model effectively Practice of using the Meta Model – today and tomorrow
What is the Meta Model? "The basic principle behind the Meta Model is Korzybski's notion that 'the map is not the territory.’ That is, the models we make of the world around us with our brains and our language are not the world itself but representations of it.” Dilts and DeLozier, Encyclopedia of Systemic Neuro-Linguistic Programming and NLP New Coding, 2000.
The Meta Model The Meta Model was first described by John Grindler and Richard Bandler in their book ‘Structure of Magic ’ Vol.1 (1975) Grindler and Bandler had observed successful therapists using certain language patterns - essentially questions – that enabled them to get to the heart of issues and assist their clients
Two levels of language Surface structure – everything we say, either to ourselves or to other people Deep structure – the underlying meaning of what we say – containing information neither expressed nor consciously known about Noam Chomsky
The Meta Model gives a framework to find out the layers of meaning below the spoken words
What does the Meta Model Do? Gathers information n Can receive important information that has been omitted from the surface structure Clarifies meaning n It gives a systematic framework for asking ‘What exactly do you mean? ’ n When you do not fully understand what the other person means you can use the Meta Model to clarify meaning Identifies limits n The Meta Model can be used to challenge the rules and generalisations being applied to your thinking, to discover where you are limiting yourself and how you could be freer Gives choices n The Meta Model can expand your map of the world by opening routes and doors considered closed or not available
Allows us to see beneath the surface of the iceberg
Using the Meta Model Meta Model Question Statement
+
= Response
Desired Revealed Information
NLP and the Meta Model “Selecting the most useful question is a skill which …. is one of the most important skills within the NLP repertoire” Northern School of NLP
Why use the Meta Model? To improve our communication with others To better understand other people To manage ourselves and others more effectively To help others get out of a ‘stuck’ state or get into a more resourceful state To assist others to be what they want to be To learn new skills and behaviours
Application of the Meta Model in Human Resource Management Coaching Interviewing n n
Disciplinary and grievance Selection
Individual and team development Performance reviews and appraisals Mediating
Using the Meta Model Outcome Setting - What is the outcome required? Rapport – What level of rapport and trust will be required to achieve the outcomes required? Sensory Acuity - Using the senses to recognise where the other person is, and thus how to respond Flexibility – A flexibility to respond to the other person and change one owns approach if necessary
Using the Meta Model Therefore Know what you want to achieve (outcome setting) Take action – Create rapport and trust Use the Meta Model Notice the response (sensory acuity) Do something different (if required) ….flexibility
The Meta Model Meta Model 13 elements divided into 3 categories Deletions Distortions Generalisations (and variations)
Precision Model 7 categories
Using the Meta Model – the Precision Model Fuzzy Nouns I need a new job
What job specifically?
Vague Verbs I will prepare the report for you How will you prepare the report?
Comparisons The results have been better
In comparison with what?
Opinions as Facts It’s bad to be inconsistent
Who says?
Universals I always feel nervous
Always? Was there ever a time when you weren't?
Using the Meta Model – the Precision Model Rules We should do this now
What would happen if we didn't?
Distortions Cause & Effect If he ever leaves me I'll be so sad Mind Reading He doesn't like me
How would him leaving you cause you to feel sad? How do you know he doesn't like you?
Interpretation Her being late means she doesn't love me
How does her being late mean she doesn't love you?
Using the Meta Model Practice of using the Meta Model – today and tomorrow Skill 1 - Recognise the pattern Skill 2 - Select the most useful response
Using the Meta Model … today Form groups of 3’s There are 3 piles of cards on each table 1 pile contains statements 1 pile contains responses 1 pile contains patterns Person A makes a statement, Person B makes an appropriate response, Person C selects the appropriate pattern. Swap roles Feedback on the practical exercise Did you notice any patterns?
Using the Meta Model … tomorrow Start with yourself n
n
Listen to your own internal dialogue. What patterns do you use? The Meta Model will give you internal clarity Listen to your spoken words. Notice habitual patterns
Use Meta Model questions with rapport and respect, context and ecology n
Use Meta Model questions when you need to not because you can
Use a three part strategy n n n
Recognise the patterns Decide whether you need to ask a question or make a challenge Frame a question and ask it
Where to discover more An internet search for the Meta Model and NLP will provide several sources of further information Web site : Northern School www.nlpand.co.uk Books: n ‘NLP at Work’ – Sue Knight – a comprehensive introduction to NLP – it does not require any previous knowledge n ‘NLP Workbook’ – Joseph O’Connor – a thorough approach
Any Questions? Have a safe journey Happy exploring
