Sharing one of my facilitation hacks that has helped me build a dynamic portfolio of proven impact with community-led projects –
Before I facilitate with a new group, I always hold an orientation or onboarding session where I’m getting to know the participants before the facilitation work begins.
If I can’t get together with the group in-person or there are scheduling conflicts, I will host us on a Zoom call or send out a survey with some key questions that everyone fill out –
💥 their goal of the work;
💥 challenges or concerns they have about the facilitation;
💥 brief personality test;
💥 communication style;
💥 learning style;
💥 a few random samples in a “This or That” format (i.e. video clip and reflection or brief article and written questions).
Usually, this is a fun time! I’m playing a special playlist I’ve made for the group (and people ALWAYYSSS ask for the link after 😎 ) and I’ve dressed up in festive attire, even if it’s over Zoom.
And low key, I’m setting a celebratory tone for our heavy lifting, I’m building trust with the group as the facilitator and the group is building rapport with each other in ways they may not get to do in their day-to-day on the job. By the end of it, I’ve gathered a TON of data about the group – through written answers to the survey, observations of subtle group dynamics and noting any verbal side-bar dialogue that we’re having.
All of this shapes the facilitation process and none of it has failed me yet!
Facilitation Hacks for Newbies
