Corporate FacilitationLearn More about the Qualities of a Facilitator A corporate facilitator must possess some unique qualities to make corporate facilitation successful. He must be a good guide, have adequate knowledge, possess facilitation skills, and the right attitude. The role and responsibility of a business facilitator is not as simple as you think it to be. Through learning and activity sessions, he has to ensure full participation or involvement in discussions, games, and activities. In simple words, he should possess some unique qualities to make corporate facilitation a real success. Efficient Guide The coordinator of team building retreats is like a guide assisting the participants to make the most out of the sessions. The facilitator is the person who identifies strengths, weaknesses, and talent of the members. In some situations, the trainer also shares some of his professional experiences. Knowledge A qualified facilitator is one who has adequate knowledge on a particular subject. First and foremost, the concerned person must know why such facilitation program is organized. And, as far as knowledge is concerned, it should not be limited to the topic of discussion or activity, but additional interest and cognizance of society and community. Most important is proper understanding of a company’s problems. This is essential when participating members will ask questions concerning a subject. The facilitator should not only answer all questions but also provide additional information. He should also suggest out of the box ideas to educate and inspire the group. Adequate knowledge will result in smooth communication between the trainer and the participants. The Right Attitude Employees love to communicate with a person having the right attitude in dealing with people. This is the reason a professional who has a pleasant personality and friendly disposition make management retreats successful. If the coordinator of the retreat is not approachable and friendly, it will be difficult for the participants to socialize and participate in the discussion. Moreover, the
planner of such facilitation programs must treat all members equally, and give everyone an equal opportunity to speak. He should not be biased or encourage favoritism. Good Facilitation Skills This is most important. As far as skills are concerned, the facilitator must be able to communicate clearly. Whatever is discussed should be comprehensible by the members participating. He must have the ability to manage a large group, have good listening skills, and adept in asking appropriate questions. Most important is his ability to resolve differences and conflicts within a group. Without sound communication skills, it’s not possible to create an interactive environment. Sound management skills are necessary so that the facilitator is able to motivate participants to get the best out of them through question-answer activities, games, and team building exercises. Relevant and intelligent questions should be asked. The questions should be so framed to help team members identify their hidden talent, and reflect on a subject. He should also be a great problem solver. Patience The key to success of corporate facilitation is the patience and perseverance of the facilitator. He must be sensible enough to understand the problems within a team, and the challenges faced by them. He should listen to concerns patiently and have a sense of empathy for those who need to be given more time and attention. Most important is not losing temper; else the whole idea of management retreats will become futile. What are your views on the subject? Please leave your comments.
Thank You