Many times a speaker is asked to facilitate a presentation. There are specific strategies that are required to achieve success. The goal is to bring a group to where it can manage its own processes and achieve the results it desires. The communication is primarily between group
members and between sub-groups. The presenter moves around the room, engaging with individual groups periodically, listening and giving encouraging words.
If you get the opportunity to sit in on a facilitation presentation, it appears as though the speaker is not the main event. They are simply the guide on the side. The energy flow is generated by, and contained within, the group; periodically boosted by the facilitator. However, very valuable learning takes place through interaction, self-assessment and experimentation.
The focus of attention is on the group. The critical success factor of the group is that it owns its solution/decision, and has a new awareness of its nature and processes, with greater openness and trust. Never underestimate the special qualities a professional facilitator brings to a presentation. The facilitator has to bring sensitivity, here-and-now awareness, with a willingness to intervene and challenge. They must have flexibility and patience.
Facilitation can be an excellent presentational style that offers uniqueness and talent where valuable learning takes place.
Written by Betty Elle
Leave a Reply