Facilitation Techniques

An effective facilitator employs a strategy before, during, and after every event. The essential ingredients of an effective facilitation strategy are to be clear on the desired outcome, be prepared to establish and clearly communicate group norms (behaviors the group agrees to use during the facilitated conversation), show confidence in leveraging multiple styles and contributions, and follow an efficient and effective meeting structure.

There are some key skills that set the masterful facilitator apart from the rest. A facilitator who produces positive results every time at bat is usually willing and able to tolerate, work through, and often encourage constructive dialogue and debate. Another essential trait for the effective facilitator is to remain mentally and physically neutral and open and confident in the material being shared.

One final note for the masterful facilitator, throughout any facilitated conversation, is to keep a steady focus on driving the participants toward the desired outcome that you have established prior to and during the meeting. Facilitation skills can be used in any conversation, and it pays to keep these skills fine-tuned. An effective facilitator makes sure that every voice is heard, that outcomes are achieved, and that time spent in meetings is productive and contributes to the overall business needs.