Become A Better Workshop FACILITATOR In 8 Minutes (Facilitation Technique)

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to help you become a better workshop facilitator in just 8 minutes. By implementing a few key techniques, you can make your workshops more memorable and effective. The following steps will guide you through essential facilitation strategies based on the insights shared by AJ&Smart CEO, Jonathan Courtney.

Step 1: Understand the Serial Portion Effect

• The Serial Portion Effect refers to how information is retained based on its position within a sequence.
• Participants are likely to remember the first and last parts of the session better than the middle.
• Practical Tip: Design your workshop to leverage this effect by focusing on impactful openings and closings.

Step 2: Apply the Peak-End Rule

• The Peak-End Rule suggests that people judge experiences largely based on how they felt at their peak and how they ended, rather than the overall experience.
• Aim to create a strong emotional peak during your workshop and ensure the closing leaves a lasting impression.
• Practical Advice: Plan a memorable activity or discussion point that resonates with participants during the peak.

Step 3: Start Strong

• Begin your workshop with a clear ritual or activity that captures attention and sets the tone.
• Consider icebreakers or engaging questions to energize the group.
• Common Pitfall: Avoid starting with lengthy introductions or administrative details that can dampen enthusiasm.

Step 4: End with a Highlight Session

• Conclude with a highlight session where participants share their key takeaways or insights from the workshop.
• This reinforces learning and provides closure.
• Implementation Tip: Allocate time for each participant to express their favorite part of the workshop.

Step 5: Show Progress Made During the Workshop

• Visually display the progress made throughout the session (e.g., using a whiteboard or sticky notes).
• This helps participants see how far they've come and emphasizes the value of the workshop.
• Practical Tip: Summarize key points and decisions made during the session at the end.

Step 6: Establish Rituals for Starting and Ending

• Create and consistently use rituals for both starting and ending your workshops.
• Rituals can include specific phrases, activities, or even music that signify the beginning and end.
• Tip for Success: Test different rituals to find what resonates best with your participants.

Conclusion

By implementing these facilitation techniques, you can enhance the effectiveness of your workshops. Focus on strong openings and impactful closings, utilize the Serial Portion Effect and Peak-End Rule, and create engaging rituals. For further development, consider exploring additional resources or joining facilitation communities to continue learning.