What do you do if you need to quickly adjust your facilitation approach in a large group interview?

1 Stay Alert

In large group facilitation, maintaining a keen awareness of group dynamics is essential. If you notice signs of disengagement or confusion, it's important to act swiftly. This might involve changing the pace of the interview, introducing new activities that foster interaction, or breaking the group into smaller, more manageable sub-groups to encourage participation. Your ability to read the room and interpret non-verbal cues will serve as your guide in making these on-the-fly adjustments.

2 Flex Questions

The questions you ask during a large group interview can significantly influence the flow of discussion. If you find that certain questions are not eliciting the depth of response you anticipated, don't hesitate to modify them. It could mean rephrasing for clarity, asking follow-up questions to delve deeper, or even skipping some questions to focus on more fruitful topics. The key is to keep the conversation moving forward constructively.

3 Adjust Pace

The pacing of a large group interview is a delicate balance; too fast and you may overwhelm participants, too slow and you risk losing their attention. If you sense the need for a pace change, consider introducing timed activities or structured brainstorming sessions to inject energy and urgency. Conversely, if the group feels rushed, allow more time for reflection and discussion. Effective pacing keeps participants engaged and ensures that everyone's voice is heard.

4 Embrace Tech

Leveraging technology can be a game-changer in large group interviews. If traditional methods falter, consider using real-time polling software or collaborative document platforms to gather input and keep the group focused. Technology can facilitate anonymity, which might encourage quieter participants to share their thoughts more freely. The right tech tools can transform a struggling session into a dynamic and inclusive experience.

5 Reconfigure Space

Physical space plays a significant role in group dynamics. If you sense that the current setup is hindering interaction, don't be afraid to reconfigure the room. Moving chairs into a circle, creating smaller clusters, or even having participants stand can break monotony and promote a more collaborative atmosphere. A change in environment can stimulate new energy and ideas, making it a simple yet effective tool for facilitation.

6 Personal Touch

Never underestimate the power of personal connection in a large group interview. If you need to pivot your approach, take a moment to connect with the group on a human level. Share an anecdote, express empathy, or use humor to lighten the mood. These personal touches can reset the tone of the interview and help participants feel more comfortable and engaged, which is crucial when steering the session back on track.

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?