ExplainerAny group of smart, passionate, and outspoken people can be brought into a room and there is great potential. They have the potential to solve pressing problems and create chaos.AdvertisementsIt is difficult to work together, despite the best intentions. It takes a lot of skills and training to help students and professionals navigate common pitfalls and remain productive.Professional facilitators are in high demand because of this.What does it mean to be a facilitator? What is his role?Facilitators are people who can help groups work together to achieve the best results. Facilitators can help people express their creativity while maintaining a structure that allows them to think freely and have the freedom to express themselves. A skilled facilitator can help you achieve your goals, whether it's to brainstorm new marketing strategies for a traditional business or engage students in inspiring discussions.Education facilitators don't have one role. They draw on a variety of academic disciplines such as communication, psychology, project management, learning theory, and project management to ensure that the workshop or class runs smoothly and that everyone is able to meet the objectives. These objectives can include conflict resolution and consensus building. It is necessary for someone to act as a muse as well as a referee or master of ceremonies.What's the difference between a facilitator and a trainer?Many people confuse the roles of a trainer with a facilitator. It is important to realize that these roles are different and have opposing goals. Trainers impart knowledge to others. Facilitators are not responsible for the transference of any information. It is quite common for business facilitators to not have a good understanding of the topic. However, education facilitators must embrace both roles.Facilitators must be able to think independently and emotionally about the topic and focus instead on the establishment and maintenance of the class' policies and procedures.What skills are required to become a facilitator?Although no one is born a facilitator or can teach someone how to be one, it is possible to learn the skills necessary. Facilitators must have a broad range of skills.These are six core competencies all facilitators need to master in order for them to be successful in their roles.1. When necessary, maintain neutralityIt is not easy to be able to guide people with differing ideas and not influence anyone. Facilitators must be aware of their own beliefs and can't assume they are neutral. It is still a skill that facilitators need to be able to use in certain situations. Businesses often hire facilitators outside of their company to help them avoid being taken sides. Some facilitators are able to help push a certain agenda. Facilitators must be sensitive and light-touch when leading groups to desired outcomes without suppressing participation.2. Communicate clearly and positivelyA workshop that lacks communication is a huge waste of time and a huge waste of everyone's effort. Facilitators must not only feel confident and comfortable speaking to groups, but also need to be clear and concise in their communication. This is particularly important when giving instructions to groups or asking questions that stimulate discussion. A good communicator is not just able to communicate effectively, but also knows how to listen. Facilitators who are good listeners and can clarify and expand upon the comments of attendees by asking effective, inclusive follow-up questions are excellent.3. 3.Facilitators may work with strangers or groups, but they are often required to facilitate classes and workshops with people who know each other well. It is not always easy to create synergy among unknown people. The second scenario, where people have established working relationships, is often the most difficult. Preconceived notions and expectations, as well as existing hierarchies can limit creativity and reduce the chances of positive outcomes. Facilitators are skilled at recognizing these obstacles and creating new dynamics for the group to lessen their influence.4. Time management is essential.It is difficult to replace time. A good facilitator can not only use the workshop's time efficiently, but also keep the participants engaged and excited. This requires an understanding of group dynamics and the ability to plan. It also requires mental agility to adjust on the fly. It can be difficult to ensure classes run smoothly and participants don't feel rushed or bored. However, with the right techniques and lots of experience it is possible.5. Keep your spirits up and keep your energy levels high.It's just human nature. It is rare for people to be excited about another class. This holds true regardless of the topic or its importance. The group's success can be hindered by the unwillingness of some participants to fully participate in sessions. Facilitators are there to inspire participants to overcome any doubts and to feel inspired and confident enough to participate in the session, even if they initially were not motivated. This can be achieved in many ways, from the silly to the sophisticated. The facilitator will know which method to use depending on the situation, and how to match it with particular members of the group.6. Unflappable composure, patience.Sometimes things go wrong. Things go wrong. Technology fails, discussions get heated, and classrooms don't always go according to plan, despite all the preparations. A good facilitator should not appear daunted by any situation. The best way to avoid becoming overwhelmed is to have a good facilitator training program. The field of professional facilitators has just begun, but there are many well-received educational options.
