Choosing a facilitator

A good facilitator:

• is seen as trustworthy, impartial and culturally sensitive
• speaks clearly and positively
• notices and responds when people's energy is flagging.

A suitably flexible facilitator:

• plans the agenda in advance but is flexible on the day
• ensures at the start of the meeting that the purpose is clear and agreed by those present
• has a toolbox of techniques for engaging people in different ways.

An experienced facilitator:

• focuses on guiding the meeting rather than talking
• ensures that different voices are heard and prevents one person or group from dominating the meeting
• constructively manages conflict
• clarifies where necessary, by paraphrasing what has just been said and checking accuracy
• summarises at intervals the conclusions the meeting appears to be reaching
• keeps the meeting on track and keeps an eye on the time
• helps participants draw conclusions at the end and determine clear actions.

Consider contracting an independent skilled facilitator if:

• you are conducting a complex, large-scale consultation
• the topic of your consultation could be contentious
• a facilitator from a government agency would not appear sufficiently neutral.

Recognise the potential of those within a community, iwi or Maori organisation with whom you have active relationships. Could they facilitate the meeting?

Remember that the best person for the role will be someone culturally appropriate and familiar with the community, with the particular skills and knowledge that you seek.

Contact the facilitator's referees and ask about their background and style of working. Seek the views of community organisations and government agency people who have worked with this person, to get a balanced perspective.

Arrange an initial meeting with the facilitator you plan to use. Brief them clearly about the outcomes you want to achieve and give them an opportunity to ask questions.

Contact facilitators early in your planning and involve them in designing the process.

For an indication of the kind of qualities you can expect of a professional facilitator see the International Association of Facilitators Code of Ethics. Their resources on training and skills development may also be useful.