What are the career paths for facilitators?

Internal facilitators offer great advantages within organizations. Their deep understanding of internal dynamics and processes is of great value. Having fulfilled such a role in the past, I understand the value of these insights. However, a significant challenge arises from potential bias due to 'subject matter involvement' ?? and/or hierarchical influence (both from seniority or if you are the senior). I've learned that at times, hiring an external facilitator proves more effective. They counter biases, spark innovation, and offer an objective viewpoint. The choice depends on context. While internal facilitators leverage their insight, external facilitators bring a fresh approach, ultimately elevating collaboration and decision-making

Once you are habituted with the facilitation now you can deisgn your tools and activity plan for the facilitation and this moments is very magical becaue once you deisgn activity that will be replicable for others. also this is kind of where you produce knowledge creator and other can utilize this.

Hiring an external facilitator offers leaders significant benefits. First, an external facilitator brings a fresh perspective. This outside viewpoint can ignite innovative thinking and provide valuable insights. Second, an external facilitator's expertise in facilitation techniques and methodologies is honed through their work with various clients and ensures a tailored approach that suits the specific needs of the leader and their team. Finally, by bringing in an external facilitator, the leader can actively participate without the burden of leading the session. This allows them to fully participate in discussions, contribute ideas, and foster a collaborative environment.

External facilitation is especially needed for specialist subjects that may not be part of the core work of the company. Examples include employee health and well-being programs or when employee rights or well-being legislation changes and companies need to find ways to adapt. External facilitation in these areas can also assist with employee retention as employers who are innovative in looking after their employees are more likely to keep them this reducing recruitment and training costs.

External facilitators bring significant benefits to an organization. Their impartiality ensures objectivity and innovative thinking. They can provide fresh perspectives (e.g., from specialized expertise), but more importantly, due to their neutrality and focus on the 'process,' they will challenge assumptions, generate usable outcomes and decisions, offer conflict resolution, and achieve more effective collaboration. Skilled facilitators know how to create a safe space to get the most out of the team and how to build up the creative process. Importantly, external facilitators promote enhanced participation and efficient resource utilization. In a nutshell, they elevate collaboration, decision-making, and organizational success

I wholeheartedly agree. I've been fortunate to learn directly from Blair Singer, the Former Rich Dad Advisor for Robert Kiyosaki, for over a decade. During this time, he graciously shared his three decades of facilitation experience. It's been magical to witness the impact of his teachings in my current role. One invaluable lesson I learned from Blair's facilitation training is effectively managing tension or conflict in a group setting. Blair emphasizes addressing and resolving such issues in real-time, within the room itself. I'm honored to pass on Blair's knowledge and insights as a facilitator trainer in our Master Facilitator Program. Teaching Blair's work is a remarkable opportunity.

It's important to have clarity on the path you want to take in your facilitation career. Think about your values and consider seriously if you want to facilitate internally or externally as early as you can. This is crucial because it will influence the kind of skills you will need to develop as a facilitator. As an example: An external facilitator would have a larger breadth of knowledge and understanding of various business and organizational models. While an internal facilitator would need to develop a deep understanding of an industry or domain. Each bring immense value to their audience in their own unique way and having this clarity helps you carve your niche and USP as a facilitator.

Based on my experience, I would like to add that some individuals may prefer to remain as trainers, imparting their knowledge and skills to learners in their area of expertise. This is perfectly fine. However, becoming a master facilitator requires a person's willingness to make a significant impact in the room, while continuously working on personal development, including addressing inner doubts and staying fully engaged. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is undeniably a fulfilling career when witnessing the "magic" that occurs in the room – where people's lives are transformed through their breakthroughs.