How do you help large groups achieve shared goals and aspirations?

1 Know your purpose and outcomes

Before you plan and facilitate any large group session, you need to be clear about the purpose and outcomes of the session. What are the main objectives and deliverables of the session? What are the expectations and needs of the participants and stakeholders? How will you measure and evaluate the success of the session? Having a clear purpose and outcomes will help you define the scope, structure, and agenda of the session, as well as the methods and tools you will use to facilitate it.

2 Choose the right methods and tools

There are many methods and tools available for large group facilitation, each with its own strengths, limitations, and requirements. Some examples are World Cafe, Open Space Technology, Appreciative Inquiry, Future Search, and Dialogue. You need to choose the methods and tools that best suit your purpose and outcomes, as well as the characteristics and preferences of your participants. You also need to consider the practical aspects, such as the time, space, resources, and technology available for the session.

3 Prepare and communicate well

Large group facilitation requires a lot of preparation and communication, both before and during the session. You need to prepare the materials, equipment, and logistics for the session, as well as the roles and responsibilities of yourself and any co-facilitators or support staff. You also need to communicate well with the participants and stakeholders, both before and during the session. You need to inform them about the purpose, outcomes, agenda, and expectations of the session, as well as solicit their input and feedback. You also need to create a safe and welcoming environment for the participants, and establish clear ground rules and norms for the session.

4 Engage and empower participants

One of the key challenges of large group facilitation is to engage and empower all participants, especially those who may feel shy, marginalized, or intimidated by the size and diversity of the group. You need to use methods and tools that encourage participation, interaction, collaboration, and creativity among the participants. You also need to balance the whole group, small group, and individual activities, and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute and be heard. You also need to respect and appreciate the different perspectives, experiences, and cultures of the participants, and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging among them.

5 Manage time and energy

Another key challenge of large group facilitation is to manage the time and energy of the session, both your own and that of the participants. You need to design and follow a realistic and flexible agenda, that allows for enough time for each activity, as well as breaks, transitions, and reflections. You also need to monitor and adjust the pace and flow of the session, and respond to any emerging issues, questions, or conflicts. You also need to maintain and enhance the energy and enthusiasm of the participants, by using a variety of methods, tools, and techniques, such as icebreakers, energizers, games, stories, and humor.

6 Synthesize and follow up

The final step of large group facilitation is to synthesize and follow up on the results and outcomes of the session. You need to summarize and highlight the main points, insights, and actions that emerged from the session, and acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the participants. You also need to document and share the results and outcomes of the session, with the participants and stakeholders, and provide them with any additional resources or support they may need. You also need to evaluate and reflect on the process and outcomes of the session, and identify any areas for improvement or learning for yourself and your facilitation practice.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?