Here's how you can address resistance to feedback or suggestions from team members during a facilitation.

1 Understand Resistance

When you encounter resistance, take a step back and try to understand where it's coming from. Resistance often stems from fear, misunderstanding, or a lack of trust. As a facilitator, it's crucial to create a safe environment where team members feel their concerns are heard and valued. Listen actively to their feedback, acknowledge their feelings, and validate their perspective. This approach can help you uncover the underlying issues and work collaboratively towards a resolution.

2 Build Trust

Trust is the cornerstone of effective team facilitation. If team members resist feedback, it may indicate a trust deficit. To build trust, consistently demonstrate your commitment to the team's well-being and success. Be transparent about your processes and decisions, and ensure that feedback is constructive and aimed at helping team members improve. When trust is established, resistance is more likely to give way to open-mindedness and a willingness to consider feedback.

3 Encourage Dialogue

Open dialogue is essential for overcoming resistance. Encourage team members to express their views and concerns without fear of judgment or reprisal. Facilitate discussions that allow everyone to speak and be heard. This can help in identifying common ground and fostering mutual understanding. When team members feel that their voices matter, they're more likely to engage positively with feedback and suggestions.

4 Offer Support

Offering support goes a long way in mitigating resistance. Ensure that team members have the resources and guidance they need to act on feedback. This could mean providing additional training, clarifying expectations, or setting achievable goals. When team members feel supported, they're more likely to view feedback as a tool for development rather than criticism.

5 Focus on Goals

Keep the team's goals at the forefront of every discussion. When resistance arises, redirect the conversation towards the shared objectives and how feedback helps achieve them. Make it clear that suggestions are not personal critiques but are meant to enhance team performance and success. Aligning feedback with goals can help team members see the value in overcoming their resistance.

6 Adapt Strategies

Finally, be prepared to adapt your facilitation strategies based on the team's response. If certain approaches to feedback are consistently met with resistance, it may be time to try something new. Tailor your methods to fit the team's culture and dynamics. Flexibility in your approach can show the team that you're committed to finding the best way forward together.