a bi-monthly update from trainiac
08.04.09 Guiding Principles of Facilitation As people become more swamped with data, information and “noise,” the ability to lead productive group dialogue will steadily increase in value. Here are six principles to guide our practice as facilitators in today’s times.
I love this excitement!
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Be a mirror, not a magnet Help the group become conscious of its own process; deflect attention from yourself. Also remember that the learners will most likely reflect back to you the same levels of energy, commitment, and genuineness that you model.
Create safety Assumes Agenda 1 2 3 4
top down authority
Clarity about process can help create safety. Clearly describe what will occur. Explain the outcomes, clarify roles, introduce processes, and help the group develop behavioral ground rules.
There are no bad ideas
How does this help us reach our goals?
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Focus on the outcomes Your ultimate role is to help the group achieve its stated outcomes. Strengthen your facilitation skills and be prepared to focus on the outcomes while maintaining full inclusion and participation.
Practice non-attachment
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As a neutral facilitator, you may become the target for learner’s emotions. Remember to fulfill your role as a neutral facilitator. Maintain your composure if a learner is “pushing your buttons.”
Do you have anything to add?
I do!
Let’s get into groups of five...
Action item Please share this document with colleagues. Following these tips to creating a productive session in today’s hectic times can make a big difference in the quality of your facilitation. Contact us with any questions, suggestions or ideas you have for your next competency building exercise. We will be happy to help you halve the time it takes for your people to do their jobs effectively, at any level.
Practice field awareness Enhance your awareness of both the tangibles and intangibles that are always present in the group experience. Increase your skills by following the energy of the group. Listen, watch and feel what’s going on. Then make decisions as to whether to intervene and what skills to use.
Tips Make training as interactive and self-discovery based as possible. Add your own style to the training. Create a fun environment. Do not interrupt learners while they are involved in discussion or activity. Give learners time to complete activities. Guide learners through the activity if they are unsure of what they should be doing. Encourage all learners to participate. Activities must be done in groups of five or fewer.
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