AchieveUnite Facilitation Philosophy 

• Share participant expectations clearly and let them know the “why”

– Example: Be on time and on camera, be fully present, and contribute actively. Why? So that we create a learning community and benefit from everyone’s perspectives and experiences. 

• Create a psychologically safe environment

–The AchieveUnite learning experience is a place where participants can ask questions, experiment, and explore without worrying about being right or having “the answers.” Make it clear that the lessons of participants’ contributions can leave the room, but the (personal) stories stay confidential. 

• Communicate bravely as a facilitator

– Show up – be present – and consider the idea that clarity is an act of kindness. Communicate concisely. Watch for and acknowledge participants’ reactions. Ask, “How does that land for you?” or “I see you nodding – what meaning does this have for you?” 

• Show care

– Designing for care means activating empathy and being non-judgmental in words and actions. Build a caring infrastructure into your facilitation and subtly encourage connection and caring between participants.  

• Listen actively

– Offer participants your full attention, curiosity, and unconditional acceptance. Resist your natural urge to commiserate, give advice, or share your experiences. 

• Ask powerful questions

– Use open-ended questions (no yes/no answers) that spark conversation and elicit participant experiences and perspectives. 

• Contribute personally and briefly

–Very occasionally, be willing to share a brief personal teaching story. The purpose is to connect with participants or reinforce a point. The program is meant for your participants and your narrative should only be used infrequently. Facilitators play the role of “guide on the side” not “sage on the stage.” 

• Orient towards joy

– In addition to focusing on the content of the program, work to create and find moments of delight, humor, and inspiration.  

• Allow for silence

– Silence is often interpreted as a lack of interest or engagement when silence can simply mean participants are processing, metabolizing, and integrating. Don’t be afraid to allow brief, quiet moments.  

• Land on gratitude

– Acknowledge the move toward community learning, the meaningful exchanges and discussions that occur, especially at the end of each session. No matter how big or small, gratitude is an investment in a relationship. It communicates that you see your participants’ worth and appreciate their contributions.