You’re in a large group facilitation role. How can networking help you achieve your career goals?

1 What is networking?

Networking is the process of building and maintaining relationships with people who share your interests, values, or goals. Networking can help you access new opportunities, learn from others, gain feedback, and expand your influence. Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or asking for favors. It's about creating genuine connections, offering value, and supporting each other.

2 Why is networking important for large group facilitators?

Networking can be a great asset for large group facilitators, providing several advantages. You can learn new skills and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in your field, as well as showcase your expertise and credibility. Networking can also help you find new clients, partners, or employers, and open up opportunities for professional development. Additionally, you can join or create communities of practice to exchange ideas, insights, and resources with other facilitators. Lastly, networking can provide you with support, inspiration, and motivation from your peers to help you face the challenges of your role.

3 How to network effectively as a large group facilitator?

Networking is a skill you can develop and improve over time, so here are some tips on how to network effectively as a large group facilitator. You should be proactive and intentional, seeking out people who share your passion, vision, or goals, and reach out to them. Be curious and open-minded when asking questions, listening actively, and showing interest in what others have to say. It's important to be authentic and respectful when sharing your story, values, and aspirations, as well as offering your knowledge, skills, or contacts. Additionally, be generous and helpful by providing feedback, advice, or referrals without expecting anything in return. Lastly, be consistent and follow up with your contacts by updating them on your progress.

4 Where to network as a large group facilitator?

Networking as a large group facilitator can be done both online and offline. You can join groups, forums, or events related to large group facilitation or your niche on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Meetup. Professional associations, such as the International Association of Facilitators or the National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation, can provide membership benefits and resources. Conferences, workshops, or webinars are great for learning from experts and presenting your work. Additionally, you can connect with other facilitators in your local area through regional networks like the Facilitators Network Singapore or Facilitators Network Europe. Lastly, you can ask your existing contacts to introduce you to people who might be interested in your services or skills.

5 How to network during large group facilitation?

As a large group facilitator, you can use your facilitation skills and techniques to create rapport, trust, and engagement with your participants, clients, or stakeholders. To network while doing your job, introduce yourself and share your purpose and goals for the facilitation. Invite feedback and questions, and acknowledge expectations and concerns. Icebreakers, warm-ups, or check-ins can help you get to know your participants, as well as help them get to know each other. Interactive methods like brainstorming, polling, or voting can also be used to elicit ideas, opinions, or preferences from them. Visual tools such as flipcharts, posters, or slides can be used to capture and display the key points from the facilitation. Lastly, evaluation tools such as surveys or feedback forms can measure and demonstrate the impact of the facilitation. Make sure to use positive language and thank your participants for their participation.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?