How can you facilitate a successful fishbowl discussion for a large group?

Setting clear expectations for both panelists and those 'observing' is critical for an informative, engaging fishbowl discussion. Carefully plan who will do what when. To maximize participation, use a polling app to engage everyone, capture their feedback, and present live results for the panelists to respond to.

Clarity of purpose anchors fruitful fishbowl discussions. Knowing your 'why' guides every decision, from participant selection to crafting thought-provoking questions. In large groups, a defined purpose maintains focus and encourages meaningful contributions. Success lies in depth and relevance, not just volume.

The purpose of the session should help to determine who the panelists will be. It is important to identify panelists who are considered experts, or posess significant experience or knowledge so they can contribute to a robust discussion. It is also important to have panelists from different backgrounds or with different experiences that can contribute varying perspectives and bring diversity of thought to the conversation.

In using the Fishbowl method I have seen where some audiences are shy to occupy the empty seat. A best practice is to plant 'moles'. These are participants that are briefed from beforehand to sit in the empty seat ( in case it remains unoccupied for too long). Once the first 'mole' takes a seat, joins the discussion and then leaves the fishbowl, it breaks the ice and encourage others to follow suit. I recommend having 2 moles in place. The second one is just as a back up in case little momentum is generated by the first mole.

Choosing the right fishbowl format is like selecting a stage for a play; it can significantly impact the performance. With large groups, I usually prefer the Open fishbowl to encourage inclusivity, but sometimes it can lead to a diluted conversation. On the other hand, an unmanaged Closed fishbowl can turn a dialogue into a spectator sport. The Moving fishbowl, while energizing, can feel like musical chairs rather than focusing on the discussion's substance. Striking a balance is crucial, adjusting the structure for the desired outcome and steering the group back to the main topic. Ultimately, the format should be a vessel, not a constraint, for exchanging ideas.

In my experience, preparing speakers is like coaching actors for a compelling performance. It's critical for a meaningful dialogue. Handpicking diverse speakers adds depth to the conversation. A framework, like key points to cover, helps. Remind them to be adaptable. Active listening is crucial; participants responding thoughtfully is key. Speakers become catalysts for dynamic exchanges.

I usually do a demonstration of the Fishbowl before we begin so persons can visualise how it will go. It can descend into chaos, confusion and inaction if persons are not provided with clear instructions. Oftentimes persons are not used to joining panelists, so it may take the audience some time to get into the swing of the fishbowl discussion.

Based on my experience, setting ground rules is more than just maintaining order; it's about creating a framework for freedom of expression to thrive. It's like painting lines on a sports field – they don't hinder the game; they make it possible. Clear guidelines foster an environment where every voice can be heard, and participants can delve into the topic. I emphasize that everyone's perspective is valid, and our goal is to enrich understanding, not win arguments. I encourage a pause before responding to promote thoughtful engagement. Turning off phones is a standard practice to be fully present and show respect in any conversation.

In my experience, moderating a fishbowl discussion is like conducting an orchestra. You ensure every instrument is heard, maintain a steady tempo, and foster harmony. Stay impartial but decisive, inviting yet not domineering. Start with an open question to encourage broad participation without meandering. Watch the dialogue flow, intervening to amplify quieter voices and guide prolific contributors. Prompt the audience for engagement, enriching the discussion and fostering communal contribution. Strike the right balance between guidance and flexibility, keeping the conversation on track while allowing meaningful exchanges.

As with any activity, it's essential that the learnings project forward into the future so yes suggesting next steps is okay but you get the best outcomes when self generated as it will align with the participants own motivation. For instance giving them a sheet to fill in with guiding questions or getting them to write onto a post-it (eg "what was the most important learning you got from listening to your peers?" Followed by a "what will you do (differently) this week based on what you heard today?" -- a consolidation followed by a next step/action which is entirely up to them to set)

9 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE FACILITATORS Facilitating large groups is a highly delicate endeavor, where a single mistake, an erroneous judgment, or a lack of response can lead to losing the group’s commitment forever. With two decades of experience as a professional facilitator of innovation, I have led over 1000 workshops globally. Through numerous mistakes, unexpected challenges, and encounters with diverse human behaviors across cultures, I have gathered invaluable insights. I have distilled 9 essential habits of highly effective facilitators for you in this article: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/9-habits-highly-effective-facilitators-front-end-innovation-fztuf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via