How do you apply your team facilitation values?

1 Define your values

Before you can apply your values, you need to clarify what they are and why they matter to you. You can use a simple framework like the ICA Code of Ethics, which outlines four core values for facilitators: respect, integrity, honesty, and responsibility. You can also add your own personal values that reflect your beliefs and motivations. For example, you might value creativity, diversity, or collaboration. Write down your values and review them regularly to remind yourself of your purpose and direction.

2 Communicate your values

Once you have defined your values, you need to communicate them to your team and other stakeholders. You can do this by sharing your values statement, explaining your facilitation approach, and setting expectations and boundaries. You can also demonstrate your values through your actions and words, such as listening actively, giving constructive feedback, and acknowledging contributions. By communicating your values, you can build trust, rapport, and alignment with your team and other parties.

3 Align your values

Another way to apply your values is to align them with the values of your team, organization, and clients. You can do this by conducting a values assessment, where you ask everyone to identify and rank their values and then compare and discuss them. You can also use tools like the Values Proposition Canvas, which helps you understand how your values fit with the needs and wants of your clients. By aligning your values, you can create a shared vision, avoid conflicts, and enhance satisfaction.

4 Challenge your values

While it is important to uphold your values, it is also important to challenge them from time to time. You can do this by seeking feedback, learning from others, and exposing yourself to different perspectives and experiences. You can also use techniques like the Ladder of Inference, which helps you examine your assumptions and biases and how they affect your decisions and actions. By challenging your values, you can grow as a facilitator, adapt to changing situations, and embrace diversity.

5 Balance your values

Finally, you need to balance your values with the realities and constraints of your facilitation context. You can do this by prioritizing your values, negotiating trade-offs, and making compromises when necessary. You can also use tools like the Ethical Decision-Making Model, which helps you analyze ethical dilemmas and choose the best course of action. By balancing your values, you can respect your integrity, honor your commitments, and deliver value to your team and clients.

6 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?