WHY USE AN OUTSIDE FACILITATOR?

There is considerable rationale for the use of a professional well-versed in an Organizational Development discipline to serve as a process facilitator at a Planning Meeting or an Executive Retreat. Some issues to consider as you make your decision:

• A variety of complex issues intertwine that impact on the critical issues executives are reviewing. Often they are so entrenched in a situation they do not fully assess related issues and their effect on the matters at hand. An outside process facilitator can often see the “big picture”, and introduce ideas that bring new light on the topics.

• A process consultant is skilled in the intricate relationship between task and interpersonal dynamics, and can intervene in ways that will generate total group involvement.

• Often very sensitive issues arise that create an emotional climate. If not handled correctly, this can sabotage the effectiveness of the meeting, and even build histories of hostility that continue back at the work site. Progress toward goals becomes bogged down in the trivia of personality and conflict issues. A skilled process facilitator is able to introduce interventions in process that will readjust direction, address conflict in positive ways, resolve interpersonal issues and tap into the energy of the group creatively.

• Many groups consider using the Human Resources Executive as the facilitator for their meeting, since this individual typically is well-versed and competent in group process facilitation. While this person does have the skills for the role, this is not the most effective use of their talents. It is extremely difficult for a person (no matter how skilled) to serve as both team member and process consultant. The executive team needs the insights and ideas of the Human Resource person, so he/she should be freed up to be a totally committed, involved team player -- a content guru. The outside facilitator can put total focus on the process of the meeting, without trying to juggle process and content.

• An outside facilitator has no “historical baggage” to affect behavior in the meeting. This person can most effectively speak with frankness, respect and honor individual differences, address pockets of resistance; mediate legitimate confrontation; and remain non defensive and impartial in guiding the team toward their objectives.

Cher Holton, Ph.D., an Impact Consultant of Choice, is committed to guiding and inspiring people to live at the speed of choice, one choice at a time. Known for her unique interactive Keynotes, Turbo-Training™ and Retreat Forward™ Summits, Cher serves a diverse clientele, including corporate, government and healthcare organizations. Cher is one of a handful of professionals world-wide who has earned both the Certified Speaking Professional and the Certified Management Consultant designations. Cher can be reached at 800-336-3940, by email: cher@holtonconsulting.com or through her website: www.holtonconsulting.com