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A facilitator uses their knowledge of group processes and dynamics when
planning their meeting. They might make use of their skills to run a meeting or a
workshop where participants are considering problems, addressing pressing
business needs, or planning for the future. Just like in skills training, a facilitator
needs to have an agenda, specific objectives, and a plan for how the meeting will
go.
Facilitating requires the following basic skills:
Make sure everyone participates
Make sure everyone understands the problem(s) being addressed and is focused on them
Protect participants from any kind of backlash or abuse by creating and maintaining a safe
environment
Provide regular check-ins and follow-up within the session. When people get involved in a facilitated
group, they need to know whether they are still on track and that they are making progress. In addition,
they need frequent interaction with the facilitator to inject energy, keep them on track, and also to
allow some of what they do to sink in.
One way to bring it all together is to check in with the group and record their progress on a large flip
chart or whiteboard at the front of the room. This will facilitate guided discussion, mind-mapping, and
exploration. Keeping the group focused and together in this way also helps to foster the cohesiveness of
the group.