Introduction
Can any person facilitate discussions or does a facilitator need special skills? Some people think that anyone can facilitate discussions. This article contends that this assumption is not true. Not-for-profit, public sector, professional organization, aboriginal, municipal, business boards need to ensure they hire the best possible person to ensure the desired outcomes are achieved.
To this end, a facilitator needs to possess specific skills if she is going to achieve the objects desired from the engagement. These skills include the ability to:
- execute a variety of facilitation styles
- remain neutral
- honor the objective of the exercise
- craft the process to achieve the desired outcomes
- manage conflict, and
- support the group to reach consensus.
For example:She must be able to
Execute a Variety of Facilitation Styles
A. Background required
The best facilitators are knowledgeable about management, team dynamics, learning styles, and mind styles. They understand systems, how they evolve and change over time, and view conflict as normal and healthy. They can demonstrate proven methods for conflict resolutions and the importance of preserving relationships during the process.
They accept change as the only constant, welcome it, and are able to assist others to view it from that perspective.
B. Skills set
Excellent facilitators demonstrate proficient problem solving and decision-making skills. They are comfortable using a variety of group methods and avoid any techniques which can lead to mistrust or isolation of any participant. The process is as important to them as the outcomes and they modify engagement methods based on the changing needs of the group.
They continually evaluate what worked and what did not and what they will change in the future. They actively listen to participants, demonstrate excellent verbal skills, can accurately capture input, question when input is unclear, and constantly seek feedback.
C. Respect culture and history
In order to ensure their methods meet the needs of their clients, facilitators ensure they understand the history and aspects of culture which need to be honored during the process. They leave their own biases at the door and ensure the atmosphere emanates trust, safety and openness. Diverse opinions are welcomed and participants are asked to focus on the issues at hand rather than on people. Ethical behaviours are practiced at all times and the values of the entity are respected.
D. Personal opinions
Irrespective of her own beliefs, the facilitator venerates the good judgment of the group. She trusts its ability to reach the desired outcomes and understands that when ideas of the group are accepted, implementation and long-term success is achievable. Personal and field-specific expertise is equally valued and she does not perceive the need for any person either to be defensive or excluded.
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