A well-trained facilitator is essential to the success address of any learning or group process. With the increasing number of virtual meetings and workshops, it has become increasingly crucial for facilitators to understand how to lead in a remote location. To facilitate effectively in a remote setting requires time and careful evaluation of the unique challenges participants face. This article outlines the most important considerations and best practice for effective virtual facilitation.
Virtual participants face a range of difficulties, such as the inability to detect body language and how others respond to the conversation. This can cause some people to feel unheard or have their opinions dismissed, which could adversely affect the outcome of a meeting. The ability to facilitate effectively helps to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and participants are engaged throughout the meeting.
Lack of physical resources could also hinder the ability to conduct specific exercises and activities in the same way they would be conducted in live workshops. In a live workshop whiteboards and flip charts posters, post-it notepads, and other visual tools are extremely efficient. However, this can be difficult for online workshops. Bring a variety of different activities to your online session like breakout sessions, interactive games and other traditional elements, such as information sharing and questions.
