What are the benefits and challenges of co-facilitating a meeting with another person?

1 Benefits of co-facilitation

Co-facilitating a meeting can offer several advantages, such as increasing the diversity of perspectives and expertise, reducing the workload of the facilitator, enhancing the engagement of participants, and improving the flexibility of the meeting. This is due to the different styles, approaches, and techniques of the co-facilitators, which can foster creativity, innovation, and learning. Furthermore, they can adjust to the changing needs and dynamics of the group and support each other in case of challenges or difficulties.

2 Challenges of co-facilitation

Co-facilitating a meeting can also present some challenges. If the co-facilitators have different goals, agendas, or expectations for the meeting, or if they contradict or undermine each other during the meeting, it can create confusion and inconsistency. If the co-facilitators do not coordinate well, or if they spend too much time or energy on their own interactions, it can reduce the efficiency and effectiveness of the meeting. Additionally, if the co-facilitators disagree or compete with each other, or if they fail to respect or acknowledge each other's contributions and roles, it can generate conflict or tension in the meeting. Lastly, if the co-facilitators do not establish a clear and positive relationship with each other, or if they do not communicate well with the participants, it can diminish trust and rapport in the meeting.

4 How to collaborate during co-facilitation

To maximize the benefits of co-facilitation, it is essential to collaborate effectively during the meeting. Respect and trust your co-facilitator, and provide constructive feedback and appreciation in private. Communicate and coordinate with them, and use verbal and non-verbal cues to signal your intentions, transitions, and agreements. Balance and complement each other's strengths and differences to enhance the meeting, while avoiding dominating or overshadowing one another. Finally, learn from your co-facilitator by observing their style, approach, and techniques, as well as seeking feedback from them for areas of improvement.

5 How to evaluate co-facilitation

Evaluating your performance and outcomes after a meeting is a great way to measure and improve the quality and effectiveness of your co-facilitation. Collect feedback from participants to rate and comment on various aspects of the process, such as clarity, consistency, engagement, participation, flexibility, and adaptability. Review the results of the meeting to compare them with goals and objectives. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the co-facilitation process to identify what worked well and what did not. Debrief with your co-facilitator to share impressions, feelings, and insights about the experience. Acknowledge each other’s efforts and achievements while suggesting areas for improvement and collaboration.

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?