Hospitality.

This was a cornerstone of home life in my growing up years. 

It wasn't just about having people over for social visits, though we did plenty of that. More so, it was about how to behave around other people.

The concept of "hospitality" guided all of our interactions both in, and out of, our home.

I was parented with a strong emphasis on helping others feel comfortable and at ease.

To build community, it was crucial to make sure others knew their presence and their voice was welcomed by asking questions to draw them out, maintaining conversation, and helping them make connections to other people present.

Courtroom leadership requires you to practice hospitality.

Think of the work you do, specifically, in voir dire.

In order to have an engaging group conversation that will help you get to the principles in your case, you must create a welcoming and supportive environment, encouraging open-mindedness and reducing cognitive resistance.

A mind at ease is a mind that can learn.

In order to gain confidence to put their voice in the room, jurors need to feel safe and welcomed to do so. 

Encourage them by fostering a positive, supportive environment.

A positive atmosphere enhances cognitive receptivity. Bolster their confidence to learn by valuing their contributions and connecting their ideas with other key ideas being discussed.

When people feel stupid or that their ideas don't measure up, they are less likely to want to share.

Provide a positive emotional state to better facilitate learning, making your audience more receptive to new ideas and information.