Use The SODOTO Method To Learn Anything

The SODOTO Method, which stands for See One, Do One, Teach One, is a highly effective approach for learning and mastering new skills.

In 1890, William Stewart Halsted became the first Chief of Surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital who transformed surgical education by creating the residency program. Halsted’s model of “see one, do one, teach one” is based on acquiring increasing amounts of responsibility that culminated in near-independence.

This method is particularly useful in practical, hands-on environments like hospitality.

Here’s how you can use the SODOTO Method to learn anything:

1. See One

Observation and Understanding

• Find a Mentor or Expert: Identify someone who excels in the skill you want to learn. This could be a seasoned professional in your field.

• Watch and Learn: Observe them closely. Pay attention to the details of how they perform the task. Take notes on techniques, best practices, and subtle nuances.

• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions to deepen your understanding. Clarify any doubts you have about the process.

2. Do One

'Do One Perfectly' (or at least to the minimum standards agreed upon).

Practice and Application

• Start Small: Begin by practicing the skill in a controlled environment. This could be through simulations, role-playing, or under the supervision of your mentor.

• Apply What You’ve Seen: Use the techniques and methods you observed. Try to replicate the actions and approaches you learned during the observation phase.

• Seek Feedback: After practicing, seek feedback from your mentor or peers. Understand what you did well and where you can improve.

• Reflect and Adjust: Reflect on the feedback and adjust your approach accordingly. Continuous improvement is key.

3. Teach One

Reinforcement and Mastery

• Share Your Knowledge: Teach the skill to someone else. This could be a colleague, a subordinate, or even a peer.

• Simplify and Explain: Break down the skill into understandable steps. Explaining it to others will reinforce your own understanding and highlight any gaps in your knowledge.

• Encourage Questions: Encourage your learner to ask questions. Answering these questions will further solidify your mastery of the skill.

• Mentor Continuously: Continue to mentor and support your learner. Their progress and feedback will provide new insights and help you refine your own skills.

Practical Application in Hospitality

Let’s see how this method can be applied in a hospitality setting, such as learning to handle guest complaints effectively:

1. See One:

• Observe a senior staff member or manager handling guest complaints.

• Note their communication style, the language they use, and their problem-solving techniques.

• Ask about their thought process and why they handle situations in a particular way.

2. Do One:

• Practice handling guest complaints during a less busy time, with your mentor or another experienced colleague present.

• Use the techniques you observed, and adapt them to your own style.

• After each interaction, get feedback on what went well and what could be improved.

3. Teach One:

• Once you feel confident, start coaching new team members on handling guest complaints.

• Explain the techniques you learned and practiced, and provide real-life examples.

• Encourage them to observe you in action and to try handling complaints themselves, with your guidance.

By following the SODOTO Method, you can effectively learn, practice, and master any new skill, while also contributing to a culture of continuous learning and development within your team.