The Power of A Facilitator

When working in a group, one of the most underrated skills is being the facilitator. Especially when you’re doing a group interview - you may find yourself trying to look the smartest however the facilitator can be someone who may not contribute the most but has the biggest impact on the group dynamic.

Facilitation isn’t just about running meetings or workshops; it’s about guiding a group towards achieving their goals, fostering collaboration, and creating a space where ideas can flourish. In today’s dynamic workplace, where teamwork and communication are essential, mastering facilitation skills can set you apart and position you as a leader who knows how to bring out the best in others.

Here is a compilation of all the facilitation techniques I’ve learned over 10 years! I’ve kept it in short dot points so you can have a list and try them at your leisure.

Understand Your Role: The Subtle Power of a Facilitator

As a facilitator, your role isn’t to dominate the conversation or steer the group in a specific direction. Instead, your job is to create an environment where everyone feels safe to contribute, and the group can naturally arrive at solutions. You’re there to help others become their own resources, not to provide all the answers.

Think of yourself as the conductor of an orchestra. The musicians know their instruments, but your role is to ensure they’re all playing in harmony, each voice heard at the right time, creating a symphony that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Subtle Facilitation Techniques: Influencing Without Overpowering

Mastering the art of subtle facilitation means guiding the group through non-verbal cues and strategic communication, allowing the group’s natural dynamics to take the lead.

• Body Language: Open hand gestures, maintaining eye contact, and a positive posture can set the tone for the group. It signals openness and encourages participation.

• Match and Mirror: Adapt your energy and body language to match that of the group. This builds rapport and keeps engagement levels high.

• Voice Variation: The way you use your voice—varying tone, volume, and even strategic pauses—can help emphasise key points and keep the group’s attention.

• Humour: Don’t shy away from using your unique sense of humour. It can break the ice, ease tension, and keep the atmosphere light and engaging.

• Space and Group Position: The physical setup of the room matters. Arrange seating in a way that promotes visibility and inclusion, like a circle or a lunate position, to ensure everyone feels part of the conversation.

• Movement: Subtle movements around the room can help maintain energy and engagement. It’s a simple way to keep the group alert and involved without being intrusive.

• Letting Situations Play Out: Sometimes, the best facilitation is no facilitation. Allow the group to resolve conflicts or debates on their own. This fosters self-sufficiency and empowers the group to drive their own progress.

Overt Facilitation Techniques: When to Step In and Lead

While subtle facilitation is about guiding without direct interference, there are times when overt techniques are necessary to keep the group on track or deepen the conversation.

• Validating: Acknowledge and validate contributions with simple phrases like, “I heard you say… That’s a great point because…”

• Reflecting and Learning: Encourage the group to reflect on their experiences and share their learnings. Ask questions like, “What are you taking away from this?” to promote active learning.

• Normalising and Universalising: Remind participants that their reactions or thoughts are normal and shared by others. Use phrases like, “Who else can relate to that?” to create a sense of common experience.

• Calling Out Group Dynamics: If you notice unproductive dynamics, have the courage to address them directly. This helps the group recognise and correct behaviours that hinder progress.

• Taking the Lead: Sometimes, you need to set the example or guide the group with more authority. This could be starting a difficult conversation or setting expectations for an activity.

• Inviting Others: Not everyone is naturally outspoken. Encourage quieter members to share their thoughts by inviting them into the conversation.

• Devil’s Advocate: Challenge the group to consider alternative perspectives by playing the devil’s advocate. This can deepen discussions and bring out less obvious ideas.

• Challenging (Out of Care): If someone is undervaluing themselves or others, challenge that behaviour constructively. Remind them of their value and encourage positive self-perception.

• Pair and Share: Use smaller group discussions to build confidence before bringing ideas to the larger group. This technique ensures that everyone has a voice.

• Fun and Icebreakers: Don’t underestimate the power of fun. Icebreakers or light-hearted activities can re-energise a group and make the experience more enjoyable.

The art of facilitation is a powerful skill that can transform the way you lead and work with others. Whether you’re guiding a team through a project, leading a workshop, or simply facilitating a meeting, the ability to bring out the best in others is a key factor in winning in the workplace. So don’t just participate—facilitate, and watch how it changes your influence and impact.

Until next time,

Ajay