You're facilitating a large group session. How can you prevent cliques from forming and causing division?

One way to facilitate large group meetings and events while minimizing the status quo’s cliques is to add a random division exercise. Make it fun and have folks divide by counting off or assembling by birthday months or some random measure. Incorporating Fun and Games are great opportunities to bond with new people on a different level. Levity is both disarming and an easy way to connect. Set expectations early in regard to what you are doing and don’t be shy to clearly point out what you want, more inclusive behavior. Be an example of inclusion and promote it’s value. More often people do what is comfortable and don’t realize they are even being exclusive in a clique. Address it openly, and watch it organically be positive.

This could be something as simple as rotating breakout groups or assigning diverse teams for specific tasks. I set clear expectations upfront about participation, emphasizing the importance of hearing from everyone. By actively engaging different voices and creating opportunities for each person to contribute, I can keep the energy balanced and avoid anyone feeling isolated. Using structured discussions or icebreakers can be an easy way to break down barriers and help participants build connections beyond their usual circles. I keep an eye on group dynamics throughout the session, intervening if I notice certain groups becoming exclusive or others feeling left out.

Uma dinamica interessante que eu já utilizei foi formar grupos com pessoas que n?o se conhecem, intencionalmente, pedir que se conhe?am e depois que um colega apresente o outro. é importante deixar este combinado claro antes de iniciar a dinamica, para estimular que as pessoas tenham plena aten??o umas nas outras e que possa de preparar para as apresenta??es.

The best way is to ensure there are some group activities where you can mix everyone up. E.g., if there are numerous activities then make sure no one is paired together more than once. Know what department or groups everyone is from and break them up into separate groups.

To prevent cliques in a large group session, start by setting a collaborative tone through icebreakers that mix participants. Use diverse groupings and rotate teams to encourage interaction beyond their immediate circle. Create opportunities for open dialogue where everyone has a voice, and emphasise respect for different perspectives. As the facilitator, model inclusivity by engaging with all members equally, and ensure shared goals are clear so everyone feels invested in the group's success. This fosters connection and reduces division, creating a more cohesive and collaborative environment.

I’ve learned to create inclusive activities and prevent cliques, it is essential to design experiences that engage all participants, regardless of their preferred interaction style. Inclusive facilitation is as much about how information is presented as it is about creating space for everyone to share their knowledge and expertise. I choose activities that allow participants to self-select their group based on specific interests to promote community building and team dynamics. I also provide time for individual reflection before group discussions, and include movement-based or action-oriented activities to activate the mind body connection. It’s tough to be in a clique when the environment requires exploration and collaboration.