For many organisations, the beginning of September marks the start of a new year - new cycles for planning, meetings, governance, strategy-setting. We return from whatever summer breaks we have had, full of good intentions to change what we know instinctively could be done more effectively. Take meetings, for example.
If you are responsible for the next cycle or meetings, planning events, group discussions etc, what is the one thing that would make those events more impactful or would draw out individual and collective contributions and creativity more effectively?
As a coach I have been invited to facilitate board and executive planning days and strategy sessions. The leaders of those events have had to take a leap of faith that an independent facilitator will not bring their own bias or attempt to manipulate the direction from one they want to set. They have sometimes been sceptical that a facilitated session would work and not be a wasted investment. They have feared a loss of their own authority from handing over the event to someone else. They have been surprised and delighted to prove themselves wrong.
Some leaders, however, already know instinctively that their tried and tested meeting behaviours will not create the impact and progress that they wish to make and they embrace facilitation with open arms.
If you want to have better group discussions that are impactful and use the time and space given to them effectively, eliciting equality of contribution, why not consider bringing in an external facilitator?
If you would like to discuss how facilitation or individual, group or team coaching might create more impact for your organisation, why not get in touch at mark@leylandconsulting.co.uk.
I am an ICF associate certified coach, providing individualised coaching support to leaders, business owners, and employees at all stages of their careers and lives. I also work with associate…
