Isn’t it great when a friend steps up and says, “hey, let me take care of that for you”? Your friend knows you well enough to know how you want it done and even how you would go about it. You can leave it to them, not worry and go on with life. For you to not worry and even for your friend to suggest support, you have some sort of foundational relationship.
Our work-a-day worlds spin fast, with many factors demanding our time. We understand the needs and differences of structured meetings with one intended outcome, very different from an open-ended brainstorming weekend to hopefully unfold a much needed new idea. Within our teams, as leaders for us to create, plan and implement those meetings, well, unfortunately it can become a predictable outcome. An outcome which sometimes is contrary to the intention of the meeting itself. You know what I mean; we’ve all been to them. We’ve been to strategic planning weekends in which we have been told we need to come ready to think outside the proverbial box. And yet, because the big boss is the one at the front of the room, leading, even deciding when to take a break … the meeting will end up with his/her personality stamped all over it.
As a Facilitator, I first collaborate with leadership for their intended outcome of the time together. From that understanding I can promise to make sure all views are heard, ideas flow and at the designated wrap-it-up time, everyone in the room will know their personal next step. Sounds hard?
Not really, when you can turn it over to a friend. A friend who has facilitated hundreds of meetings, in various settings, utilizing proven methods and structures. A friend who believes you should go on to focus on what only you can do, and let someone come alongside to facilitate. I would enjoy listening to your ideas for taking a big next step for you and your team.