Last updated on Jul 1, 2024

You're facilitating a large group discussion. How do you navigate the differences from leading small groups?

Facilitating a large group discussion is a distinct experience compared to smaller settings. In small groups, you might find a natural flow and intimate dialogue, but larger groups require a different approach to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness. As you step into this role, you'll need to adjust your strategies to manage the dynamics of a larger audience, balance participation, and keep the discussion on track. It's about creating an environment where everyone feels heard and engaged, despite the size of the group.

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1 Clear Objectives

Establishing clear objectives at the outset is crucial when facilitating a large group. Unlike in smaller settings where the conversation can organically evolve, in larger groups, it's important to define the goals early on. This gives direction to the discussion and helps you steer the conversation back on track if it veers off course. Make sure these objectives are communicated effectively to the group so that everyone understands the purpose and desired outcomes of the session.

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2 Engage Everyone

In a large group, ensuring everyone feels included can be challenging. To engage all participants, use techniques such as breakout sessions, where smaller groups can discuss topics before bringing insights back to the larger forum. Also, consider using tools like polling or raising hands to gather quick feedback and keep people involved. Remember that some may be hesitant to speak up, so create opportunities for quieter members to contribute, perhaps through written input or smaller group discussions.

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3 Manage Time

Time management becomes more complex with more participants. To navigate this, be strict with the agenda and allocate specific time slots for each topic or activity. This helps maintain focus and ensures that all key points are covered. Be prepared to intervene politely but firmly if discussions become too lengthy or off-topic. It's your responsibility to keep the session on track while also allowing for meaningful contributions from participants.

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Estelle Corbel

Top voice LinkedIn ✔️ Executive coach ✔️ Leadership & communication trainer ✔️ Certified professional coach in career development ✔️ TED speaker / talker ✔️ Community Manager ✔️
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Très important ! La phrase magique "Je me permets de vous interrompre, car je respecte votre temps et le mien. C'est pourquoi je vous demande de garder vos questions / remarques pour le temps qu'il nous restera. Je resterai également après la fin de la formation 30' si vous souhaitez me poser des questions." J'ajoute parfois que les participants peuvent me contacter via mes coordonnées si le temps m'empêche d'être disponible pour eux, ou simplement que 2j, 1j, 1/2j ou 1h ne me permettent de répondre/faire échanger qu'à un nombre donné de questions.

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4 Foster Respect

Maintaining a respectful atmosphere is essential, especially as more voices and opinions come into play. Set ground rules for interaction at the beginning, such as one person speaking at a time and no interrupting. This fosters a sense of order and respect. Also, be an active listener and mediator, acknowledging all contributions and managing conflicts if they arise. Your role is to create a safe space where differing opinions can be expressed constructively.

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Estelle Corbel

Top voice LinkedIn ✔️ Executive coach ✔️ Leadership & communication trainer ✔️ Certified professional coach in career development ✔️ TED speaker / talker ✔️ Community Manager ✔️
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La clé : ne jamais accepter de débordement ou d'infraction à la règle émise en démarrage de séance. Je vois trop souvent de formateurs et formatrices débutants ne pas oser ramener le calme, rappeler le cadre émis précédemment ou hausser le ton pour se faire. Attention à ne pas mélanger hausser le ton afin de ramener un règlement bienveillant pour le bon fonctionnement et la participants de chacun, et hausser le ton pour user d'une autorité mal placée et injustifiée. Votre autorité a cet instant est tout à fait justifiée, car vous avez posé un cadre à respecter et l'assemblée y a acquiescé. C'est donc un accord réciproque, à respecter et faire respecter.

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5 Adapt Techniques

Adapting your facilitation techniques is key when transitioning from small to large groups. You might need to project your voice more, use microphones, or incorporate visual aids like slides to ensure your message reaches everyone. Additionally, consider using technology such as online collaboration tools to facilitate interaction. These adaptations help overcome the logistical challenges of engaging a larger audience and keeping the session interactive.

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Estelle Corbel

Top voice LinkedIn ✔️ Executive coach ✔️ Leadership & communication trainer ✔️ Certified professional coach in career development ✔️ TED speaker / talker ✔️ Community Manager ✔️
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Exactement, les outils de sondages ou de collaboration instantanée aident grandement en grand groupe. Également, je responsabilise beaucoup plus les participants, créant des sous groupes avec restitution ou encore en réalisant des jeux de rôles et des debriefing en table ronde qui impressionnent et recentrent l'attention de tous et toutes.

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6 Reflect and Learn

After facilitating a large group, take time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. This reflection is an opportunity for personal growth and skill enhancement. Seek feedback from participants to gain insights into their experience. Use this information to refine your facilitation approach for future large group discussions, ensuring each session is more effective than the last.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Large Group Facilitation

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You're facilitating a large group discussion. How do you navigate the differences from leading small groups?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Clear Objectives

2 Engage Everyone

3 Manage Time

4 Foster Respect

5 Adapt Techniques

6 Reflect and Learn

7 Here’s what else to consider

Large Group Facilitation

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You're facilitating a large group discussion. How do you navigate the differences from leading small groups?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Clear Objectives

2 Engage Everyone

3 Manage Time

4 Foster Respect

5 Adapt Techniques

6 Reflect and Learn

7 Here’s what else to consider

Large Group Facilitation

Rate this article

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