It is always the very last individual who steps into the overcrowded elevator that can push the right buttons for everyone. They know to ask the right question, “Where is everybody going?” This is how meeting and business facilitators operate. The role is often informal, without title or rank, but the position is always central to purpose, goals and objectives.
In sports, facilitators coach on the sidelines and the press box. They are never center stage. But they know very well that no diesel locomotive, no matter how powerful, is complete without box cars and a caboose. They all must be connected, on track and headed in the right direction or it is useless. Facilitation is by definition an array of emotional pushes, all in the right direction. And every employee must know that facilitators are there for them through thick and thin and through every emotion.
In the current Michigan economy, businesses that continue to survive are all motivated by emotion, leadership and opportunity. It is done through mission, and it is done through guiding principles. Someone has to show by example how to walk the walk and how to lead by example.
The individuals in key facilitative roles believe in being positive even when it seems impossible. They believe in relationship and the power of networking. They are the optimists who see the best in people. Within the clouds, there is always sunshine. If it is raining, they pop the umbrella. Anyone and everyone can be a facilitator. It often is not the CEO or top management. It is the individual who pushed forward.
Organizations SURVIVE and THRIVE when P.U.S.H.E.D. These ingredients are critical.
- Potential (Looking for greatness)
- Understanding (assessing opportunity)
- Support (in times of challenge and success)
- Holistic view (the big picture always in mind)
- Energy (from positive attitude)
- Desire (Winning is everything)
Getting the most from your team means never having to say you’re excluded. No idea is dumb. No suggestion is ignored. Facilitation increases both opportunity and success. Take the minute, as both leaders and managers to facilitate every day, no matter what the job description says. The business depends on it. The economy depends on it. You are in charge.
Nothing happens in that elevator until the button is PUSHED by someone. Now everyone onboard can go in the right direction!
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Dale Carnegie Training of Mid & Northern Michigan. We would love to connect with you on Facebook.
Send to Kindle