Facilitation

Facilitation

1. Purpose

   • • To help a group work to its full potential
   • To give power to all members of the team (not just the "boss")

2. Role description

   • Two types
     • Neutral third party
       • Acts as an outsider
       • A process expert
       • Example: outside mediator
     • Facilitative leader
       • A content and process expert
       • Example: department head
       • A full-fledged member of the group

3. Characteristics of a good facilitator

   • Beliefs
     • Everyone's ideas are valuable.
     • The group is stronger than any of its members.
     • It's important for everyone to participate in the decision-making process.
   • Actions
     • LISTENS carefully and seeks to understand
     • Encourages others, through attitudes and actions, to listen
     • Has an objective for the meeting
     • Presents an agenda and sticks to it
     • Makes participants feel comforable
     • Encourages participation from all
     • Avoids conflict or resolves it
     • Knows and uses "tricks of the trade" to help others participate

4. Common pitfalls

   • Controlling the conversation
   • Neglecting some participants
   • Taking sides

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