Facilitation Skills

Course Aim

This course is aimed at developing the skills and techniques required to maximise the effectiveness of group discussions and meetings. It is particularly relevant to those who chair or plan to chair meetings or training sessions on a regular basis.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course delegates will be able to:

• Describe the basic principles of conducting effective meetings and discussions
• List the various roles needed to run an effective meeting or discussion
• Detail the benefits and applications of group communication & facilitation in the workplace
• Identify the core skills required for effective facilitation
• Explain group dynamics
• Stimulate group discussion
• Chair a meeting using these skills and techniques

Course Content

The course will include:

Effective Meetings and Discussions - Roles, Structure and Process

What is Facilitation & When are Facilitators Needed?

Group Dynamics

• The cycle of group development
• Diagnosing the development of a group
• Dealing with group conflict
• Dealing with individual behavior
• Group size and participation

Meeting Skills

• Chairing meetings
• Managing communication
• Managing debates
• Handling arguments
• Picking up on body language
• Including quieter members
• Controlling more vocal members
• Ensuring key points are heard
• Creating group participation
• Verbal & non-verbal messages
• Active listening
• Feedback skills

Facilitator Skills

• Rapport building
• Establishing and retaining control
• Staying ahead
• Importance of feedback
• Communication style
• Increasing personal impact and creditability
• Maximising verbal and visual communication skills
• Tools & techniques