1. SEVEN STEPS TO
EFFECTIVE FACILITATION
Learn
applying Biblical truth for everyday living
Invite
welcoming others to our fellowship
Fellowship
nurturing Christ centered caring relationships
Evangelize
reaching others with the hope of Christ
2. 1. Making everyone feel valued
2. Encouraging participation
3. Listening and observing
4. Guiding the group
5. Facilitating Discussions & Decisions
6. Ensuring Positive Outcome
7. Adjourning on a positive note
THE SEVEN STEPS
3. MAKE EVERYONE FEEL COMFORTABLE & VALUED
Get to know the participants
Formally start the meeting & welcome
everyone officially
Give precise instructions & announcements
Review Previous Session just to dovetail
Set the tone and pace
Consider an icebreaker
Use body language
Thank participants for joining the study
4. ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION
Listen for unfamiliar terms.
Restate the issue/question before a decision.
Use open-ended questions
Use visual aids where necessary
Encourage Silent members to participate
Consult the group
5. Listen actively
Do not make assumptions
Check for understanding
Rephrase the responses of the participants
Be specific in describing what you observe.
Describe or probe the impact of what you
observe.
Summarize often
Write it down / make notes
LISTEN AND OBSERVE
6. Keep the group on task
Challenge their assumption
Encourage them to go beyond (creative
tension)
Instill the concept of Effectiveness
Instill the concept of Initiative
Help the group set priorities and decide which
remaining agenda items to address in the time
remaining.
GUIDE THE GROUP
7. Keep the group on task
Assess the group’s concentration and
engagement
Clarify confusing discussions
Provide feedback to the group
Enforce ground rules
FACILITATING DISCUSSIONS & DECISIONS
8. Check your personal biases
Ask for and summarize suggestions
Point out consensus
Point out similarities between members’
statements
Use conflict to improve decisions
ENSURING POSITIVE OUTCOME
9. Thank members for their perseverance and
hard work
Remind participants of discussion that
received strong support
Small talk with participants
ADJOURN ON A POSITIVE NOTE