What Does A Facilitator Do?

A Facilitator concentrates on providing the resources and opportunities for learning to take place rather than manage and control learning.

An Effective Facilitator

• Has the ability to listen closely as well as understand
• Has the ability to remain neutral and objective
• Has a genuine interest in the issues the business needs to address
• Has a collaborative style
• Has an appreciation for the value of individuals time and effort
• Has the ability to get cooperation and full participation from a group
• Has the skill to ensure the flow of discussion while making sure everyone's views are heard

The Tasks of a Facilitator

• Focusing the group on the objectives
• Setting the stage early on for a successful outcomes
• Keeping every one of the participants engaged and involved
• Asking the obvious and even the "silly" questions
• Clarifying participants roles, responsibilities and expectations
• Recording the actions and the timescale and assigning individuals tasks
• Providing closure around decisions