Yesterday, I had the honor of speaking about workshop planning at the Facilitation Fundamentals training hosted by Funsize! Although I now have formal education and credentials in facilitation, my early days of running workshops were a lot of trial and error (emphasis on “error”). Picture a young, nervous Maria trying to get a group of skeptical software engineers to write ideas on sticky notes. 😅
This event was a “pinch me” moment, allowing me to share my experiences with an amazing and thoughtful group. Here are my top tips for planning successful workshops, along with some insights from the session.
Embracing the Learning Curve
When I first started facilitating workshops, it was a steep learning curve. I had to navigate group dynamics, keep participants engaged, and achieve productive outcomes—all without the benefit of formal training. Despite the challenges, these early experiences were invaluable. They taught me the importance of preparation, flexibility, and continuous learning.
The Importance of Preparation
Preparation is crucial for a successful workshop. Before the session, define your objectives clearly. What do you want to achieve? Having a clear goal helps in designing the workshop structure and selecting the right activities.
Create an agenda that outlines the flow of the workshop. This agenda should be shared with participants beforehand to set expectations. Gathering materials and setting up the space ahead of time can also help prevent last-minute hiccups.
Engaging Participants
Engaging participants is essential for a productive workshop. Start with an icebreaker to get everyone comfortable and talking. Use a variety of activities to cater to different learning styles and keep the energy levels high.
Encourage participation by asking open-ended questions and facilitating group discussions. Make sure everyone’s voice is heard, and be ready to adapt if the group dynamic changes.
Handling Real-Life Scenarios
During the Funsize training, the group brought some amazing (and complex) real-life scenarios to the table. This was an excellent opportunity to brainstorm and discuss what we might do differently next time. Real-life scenarios provide practical learning experiences and help participants think on their feet.
Continuous Improvement
One of the most rewarding aspects of facilitating workshops is seeing participants grow into confident facilitators themselves. I’m excited to see this group evolve and develop their skills. Continuous improvement is key—always seek feedback and reflect on what went well and what could be improved.
