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Sucessful
facilitators are aware of both themselves and the members of
the groups they facilitate. When this level of awareness is
achieved, a facilitator is able to sucessfully guide a group
to a desired destination or fulfill a particular purpose. Awaremess
of one's self within the role of a facilitator is essential
for consistent performance and growth. Here are some ideas and
concepts for your consideration.
Most
effective facilitators have taken time to examine themselves
on several levels. Here are a few:
- Values
- Belifes
- Needs
- Perspectives
- Experiences
- Capabilities
Self
awareness includes a keen sense of one's role in relation to
the group. Keys to sucess include:
- Careful
assessment of the group's needs.
- Help
people understand why they are in the group.
- Make
members the center of attention.
- Work
hard at staying neutral.
- Treat
all participants as equals.
- Stay
flexible and be ready to change direction.
- Listen!
Listen! Listen!
- Ensure
that members feel ownership for what has been accomplished.
Successful
facilitators work hard at improving their skills. Consider the
following:
- Identify
your strengths and weaknesses.
- Learn
how to use a wide range of facilitation tools.
- Practice!
Practice! Practice!
- Videotape
yourself in action.
- Ask
another facilitator to critique your work.
- Apply
the ideas and techniques of role models.
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