The method used to facilitated a discussion determines how well the guests express themselves and whether they will connect with the topic at hand. Excellent hosts have learnt the best dialogue facilitation techniques that make discussions fruitful and interesting. Here are some of these techniques and areas where they can be used effectively.
Take the approach of a traffic controller at an airport instead of acting like a pilot. Traffic controllers direct planes through gestures and signals. This means that every plane will follow the directions and find its resting place. This is different from a pilot who is in charge as a professional. Allow panelists to express their ideas and opinions even though you have some opinions of your own. Do not turn the discussion into a one man show.
Lay down the rules that will be used to guide the discussion. This is the only way you will have order in the conversations. There should be an understanding of who speaks first and how the signals are issued. Language must be defined and mannerisms that help maintain civility. With ground rules set, you have a very productive and civil discussion.
Pay attention to questions and not answers. It happens that you have an answer or opinion about the issue being discussed yet you are the facilitator. It means that you must focus on getting knowledge out of your panelists and not being the source of this knowledge. This ensures that you are engaged in genuine dialogue. If you contribute extensively, it will appear as though you were the guest.
Ask questions that are open ended and that incite dialogue. Such questions cause people to feel the urge to respond and contribute. The tricks that can be used to draw more answers or responses include What Follow, How So, Tell Me More and such conversation extending phrases. This approach is also effective in reducing one-worded answers that can make your discussion very taxing.
Prepare a captivating conversation starter. Though you have a topic to tackle, it must begin as an easy conversation to warm the place. In fact, it is recommended that you make remarks that are open ended and that allow everyone to jump in. Set the tone by starting the conversation using an interesting tactic. Ensure that this opener does not lock out some people because the intention is to make everyone feel at ease.
The discussion should feel like an invitation and not a situation where people are forced. This will be determined by the words you use. Words used should reflect an easy environment where participants can discuss and share openly. Facial expressions, subtle motions and eye contacts will tell you who is ready to take up the discussion. Find a tactic to tame the people who want to take over without putting them down.
Keep the discussion relevant even when other issues emerge. Every discussion has the potential of spinning out of control as new ideas emerge. When people are put on their defense, be ready to allow them redeem their image. Find an interesting ending that is also captivating and memorable.
Take the approach of a traffic controller at an airport instead of acting like a pilot. Traffic controllers direct planes through gestures and signals. This means that every plane will follow the directions and find its resting place. This is different from a pilot who is in charge as a professional. Allow panelists to express their ideas and opinions even though you have some opinions of your own. Do not turn the discussion into a one man show.
Lay down the rules that will be used to guide the discussion. This is the only way you will have order in the conversations. There should be an understanding of who speaks first and how the signals are issued. Language must be defined and mannerisms that help maintain civility. With ground rules set, you have a very productive and civil discussion.
Pay attention to questions and not answers. It happens that you have an answer or opinion about the issue being discussed yet you are the facilitator. It means that you must focus on getting knowledge out of your panelists and not being the source of this knowledge. This ensures that you are engaged in genuine dialogue. If you contribute extensively, it will appear as though you were the guest.
Ask questions that are open ended and that incite dialogue. Such questions cause people to feel the urge to respond and contribute. The tricks that can be used to draw more answers or responses include What Follow, How So, Tell Me More and such conversation extending phrases. This approach is also effective in reducing one-worded answers that can make your discussion very taxing.
Prepare a captivating conversation starter. Though you have a topic to tackle, it must begin as an easy conversation to warm the place. In fact, it is recommended that you make remarks that are open ended and that allow everyone to jump in. Set the tone by starting the conversation using an interesting tactic. Ensure that this opener does not lock out some people because the intention is to make everyone feel at ease.
The discussion should feel like an invitation and not a situation where people are forced. This will be determined by the words you use. Words used should reflect an easy environment where participants can discuss and share openly. Facial expressions, subtle motions and eye contacts will tell you who is ready to take up the discussion. Find a tactic to tame the people who want to take over without putting them down.
Keep the discussion relevant even when other issues emerge. Every discussion has the potential of spinning out of control as new ideas emerge. When people are put on their defense, be ready to allow them redeem their image. Find an interesting ending that is also captivating and memorable.
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