It doesn’t matter what type of group you are working with, success often comes down to how well everyone gets along with each other. But the difference between a functioning and non-functioning group is not whether the magic happens naturally. It’s whether you – as the facilitator, chair, coordinator – make it happen.¹
Group dynamics are complex.² Over the last 28 years I have encountered many people who just want to dive in and get the job done. Some may not realize that there are many ways to get the job done. Some might not know the answer and want to talk about it – a lot, much to the frustration of the others in the group. I could go on but hopefully you get the picture. In essence, the group is not really a group… yet. This is where the leader/facilitator’s job begins.
¹ I’m referring to committees, boards, round tables, councils and other forums with an established mandate and timeframe.
² In any given group, you may find a mix of ‘doers’, ‘leaders’, ‘complainers’, ‘avoiders’, and ‘pleasers’.
Facilitation processes and tips are readily available. However, the qualities of a good facilitator or group leader are not as handy to find. That’s because they come from within. So, all I can tell you is what generally works for me to make a group work. I make sure that I have time to:
- Be receptive and adaptable
- Get people to explore, play, and challenge themselves
- Be patient and respectful of others who think differently
- Stop, listen and observe when everyone is running around in all directions
- Move a group through forming and storming before I expect people to perform
- Energize the group with enthusiasm, cookies, creative exercises, and freedom to move
- Be vulnerable and honest; it goes a long way toward creating a supportive environment
KIM V WALKER 