# data[].attributes.body
The sources present "Presence" as a significant facet of effective facilitation, drawing a comparison between the "People's Perspective" and the "Facilitator Definition."1

●People's Perspective: The group associated "Presence" with concepts like:

○Aura: A distinct atmosphere or feeling surrounding a person.

○Energy: A palpable sense of vitality and enthusiasm.

○First Impression: The initial impact made upon meeting someone.

○Expression & Knowledge: The ability to convey information and expertise effectively.

○Processing their Style: Developing a unique and authentic facilitation approach.

●Facilitator Definition: A more formal definition highlights the facilitator's ability to project a "sense of ease, poise or ease before a group of people."1 This definition emphasizes:

○Open mind & heart: Approach the group with receptiveness and empathy.1

○Confidence: Displaying self-assurance and belief in one's abilities.1

○Genuine: Being sincere and authentic in interactions.1

○Impact: Making a memorable and influential impression.1

○Connection: Establishing rapport and a sense of connection with the participants.1

These characteristics are believed to encourage participants to be more open and receptive.1

# data[].attributes.body
Assessment

The group depicted their understanding of "Assessment" with a flowchart highlighting key aspects of the process1:

● Knowing Client Needs: Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the client, as well as possessing in-depth knowledge of their operations and organization.

●Plan & Prepare: Evaluating and adjusting processes during the preparation phase, managing expectations of different steps and processes involved.

●Alternate Plan: Having contingencies and being situationally aware. This includes being prepared with backup plans and a "toolkit" to address unexpected situations.

# data[].attributes.body
Communication

The group identified various essential elements of communication for effective facilitation234:

●Active Listening:

○ Understand and validate the client's message.

○Empathizing with the client's perspective.

○Observing body language to gain further insights into their feelings and thoughts.

●Processing Quick & Important Points: Efficiently synthesize information from the client, isolate critical points, and probe for clarification on abstract information, especially when dealing with a large volume of input.

●Synthesize & Summarize:

○Summarizing by condensing information as presented.

○Synthesizing by combining and adding information to simplify complex ideas and create new perspectives.

●Clear & Concise Instructions: Using easily understandable language and avoiding jargon or overly complex vocabulary.

●Structured Communication: Following a clear structure, such as the "OPS" (Opening, Purpose, Summary) framework, and keeping communication concise and focused.

●Vocal Delivery: Maintaining a clear and loud voice to ensure audibility and understanding.

●Using the Diaphragm: Employing proper breathing techniques and engaging the diaphragm to project the voice effectively, particularly in large settings, to prevent vocal strain.

# data[].attributes.body
Control

The group categorized aspects of control into what a facilitator can control and what they cannot control891011...:

Dos:

●Tone Setting: Establishing the desired atmosphere and energy level for the session from the outset.

●Clearing Objectives: Ensuring a shared understanding of the session's goals among all participants.

●Ground Rules: Setting clear expectations for behavior and participation to create a conducive learning environment.

●Encouraging Participation: Prompting and supporting all participants to contribute, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

●Adaptability: Remaining flexible and adjusting the approach based on the evolving dynamics and needs of the group and the situation.

Don'ts:

●External Judgment or Opinion: While facilitators should not control external judgments, they should address misleading opinions or judgments that can derail the session.

●Dominating Voice: Ensuring that one individual doesn't monopolize the conversation and providing space for others to share their perspectives.

●Micromanaging: Refraining from excessively controlling every detail, allowing participants autonomy and space to contribute their ideas.

●Ignoring Team Dynamics: Being aware of and responsive to the interpersonal dynamics within the group, adapting the facilitation style accordingly to foster a positive and productive environment.

# data[].attributes.body
Consistency

The group viewed consistency not just as uniformity in actions but as a commitment to continuous improvement in facilitation:

●Upholding Best Practices: Emphasizing consistently improving with each program or client interaction. This involves a focus on upskilling and refining facilitation techniques.

●Fairness: Treating all participants equally, regardless of their personalities or attitudes. Maintaining professionalism in all interactions, both physically and emotionally.

●Building Trust:

○Establishing credibility through consistent, professional conduct and demonstrating expertise.

○Demonstrating integrity by being honest and authentic in interactions with participants. Building trust leads to positive participant experiences and recommendations.

# data[].attributes.body
Engagement

The group examined engagement as a key competency for facilitators, highlighting its multi-faceted nature1617181920:

●What is Engagement?: Actively involving participants in the session to create a sense of investment and interest.

●Creating Interest: Tailoring the session content and delivery to resonate with participants' backgrounds and experiences.

●Creating Interactions: Encouraging active participation through questions, discussions, and collaborative activities.

●Mental, Emotional, Physical (MEP): Engaging participants on multiple levels: intellectually stimulating them, evoking emotional responses, and incorporating physical activities or movements.

●Where: Engagement can occur at any point in the session, adapting to the flow and needs of the group.

●When: Facilitators should employ engagement strategies whenever needed, based on their assessment of the group's energy and focus levels.

●Why: Engagement enhances understanding by connecting information to participants' experiences, keeps them motivated and attentive, and helps establish a focused learning environment.

●Who: Engagement is a shared responsibility; it can be fostered by the facilitator, among participants, or even from external sources interested in the session's outcomes.

●How: Facilitators can engage participants through thought-provoking questions, interactive activities, creating a welcoming environment, and tailoring the learning content to their contexts.