What are some of the common pitfalls and mistakes of large group facilitation that you avoid?

1 Lack of clarity

One of the most common pitfalls of large group facilitation is lack of clarity. This can happen when the purpose, objectives, agenda, roles, expectations, and ground rules of the facilitation are not clearly defined, communicated, and agreed upon by all participants. Lack of clarity can lead to confusion, frustration, misunderstanding, conflict, and wasted time. To avoid this pitfall, you should always start your facilitation with a clear and concise introduction that covers these elements, and check for understanding and alignment from the group. You should also revisit and reinforce these elements throughout the facilitation, and make adjustments as needed.

2 Poor engagement

Another common pitfall of large group facilitation is poor engagement. This can happen when the facilitation is too passive, boring, irrelevant, or intimidating for the participants. Poor engagement can lead to disinterest, distraction, disconnection, and dissatisfaction. To avoid this pitfall, you should always design your facilitation with the needs, interests, and preferences of your participants in mind. You should use a variety of methods, tools, and techniques to stimulate, motivate, and challenge your participants. You should also create a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment that encourages participation, interaction, and feedback.

3 Lack of direction

A third common pitfall of large group facilitation is lack of direction. This can happen when the facilitation is too vague, ambiguous, or open-ended for the participants. Lack of direction can lead to chaos, confusion, divergence, and deadlock. To avoid this pitfall, you should always provide clear and specific guidance, instructions, and expectations for each activity, task, or discussion. You should also monitor the progress, pace, and quality of the facilitation, and intervene as necessary to steer, support, or redirect the group. You should also summarize and synthesize the key points, outcomes, and actions of the facilitation, and check for agreement and commitment from the group.

4 Group dynamics

A fourth common pitfall of large group facilitation is group dynamics. This can happen when the facilitation is affected by the personalities, behaviors, emotions, and relationships of the participants. Group dynamics can lead to conflicts, tensions, biases, silos, and power struggles. To avoid this pitfall, you should always be aware of and attentive to the group dynamics of your facilitation. You should use your emotional intelligence, communication skills, and conflict resolution skills to manage and moderate the group dynamics. You should also foster a positive, collaborative, and constructive group culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

5 Technical issues

A fifth common pitfall of large group facilitation is technical issues. This can happen when the facilitation is disrupted by the malfunction, failure, or unavailability of the equipment, software, or internet connection that you or your participants use. Technical issues can lead to delays, interruptions, glitches, and losses. To avoid this pitfall, you should always test, check, and backup your technical setup before and during your facilitation. You should also have alternative or contingency plans in case of technical issues. You should also communicate clearly and calmly with your participants about any technical issues and how to resolve them.

6 Facilitator fatigue

A sixth common pitfall of large group facilitation is facilitator fatigue. This can happen when the facilitation is too demanding, stressful, or exhausting for you as the facilitator. Facilitator fatigue can lead to burnout, mistakes, errors, and poor performance. To avoid this pitfall, you should always take care of yourself before, during, and after your facilitation. You should plan and prepare your facilitation well in advance, and delegate or outsource some tasks if possible. You should also take breaks, hydrate, eat, and rest during your facilitation. You should also reflect, evaluate, and celebrate your facilitation after it is done.