What do you do if your facilitation career lacks a succession plan?

1 Assess Needs

Begin by evaluating the current state of your career and the environment in which you facilitate. Consider the specific needs of your organization or client base and how your role as a facilitator meets those needs. Are there emerging trends or changes in the industry that require new skills or approaches? Understanding these elements is crucial for identifying the gaps and opportunities that exist within your career path. This assessment will serve as the foundation for crafting a personalized succession plan that aligns with your professional goals and the evolving demands of your field.

2 Build Skills

In the absence of a succession plan, focus on enhancing your skill set to become indispensable. Facilitation is not just about guiding discussions; it's about deepening your knowledge in areas like conflict resolution, strategic planning, and group dynamics. Consider pursuing certifications or additional training in these areas. By broadening your expertise, you're not only adding value to your current role but also positioning yourself as a prime candidate for future opportunities that may arise within or outside your current organization.

4 Seek Mentors

Identify potential mentors who have navigated similar career paths. A mentor can offer guidance, share experiences, and help you strategize your career moves. Look for someone who has successfully transitioned within the facilitation field or who has built a strong reputation. A mentor's insight can be instrumental in helping you to identify opportunities for growth and to understand the steps necessary to prepare for future roles.

5 Personal Branding

Develop a strong personal brand that highlights your unique skills and experiences as a facilitator. Your personal brand is the image that colleagues, clients, and industry peers associate with you. It encompasses your expertise, the way you handle facilitation sessions, and your ability to drive results. By establishing a strong personal brand, you signal to others in your industry that you are a thought leader and a valuable asset, thus creating demand for your skills and expertise.

6 Plan Strategically

Finally, devise a strategic plan for your career progression. This involves setting clear goals, identifying potential roles or projects that align with those goals, and understanding the steps required to reach them. A strategic plan might include timelines for achieving certain certifications, a roadmap for taking on more complex facilitation roles, or even starting your own consultancy. By having a plan in place, you can proactively manage your career trajectory, rather than waiting for opportunities to present themselves.