Leading Better Group Discussions
Scenario
I’ve attended and led many group meetings. One stands out clearly — the 7th session of a group discussion where we tackled a very sensitive topic. After watching a deep, emotional video, silence filled the room. No one wanted to speak.
I gathered the courage to share my viewpoint: “We all have a choice.”
The Challenge
The facilitator immediately asked, “But do we have a choice?”
What was meant to be an open discussion suddenly felt confronting. My emotions spilled into my response, and afterward, I left disappointed in myself for being unsettled instead of grounded.
That moment taught me how delicate group dynamics can be when discussions are sensitive.
The Turning Point
Not long after, I was asked to support and lead group discussions myself. I remembered how I had felt in that earlier moment; triggered, silenced, unsettled. This time, I wanted to create something different; a space where everyone felt safe, valued, and invited to contribute.
Workflow
Frame questions with care: I made them thought-provoking but neutral or positive, avoiding anything that might shut people down.
Set a steady pace: I resisted the urge to rush, giving discussions the time they needed to breathe.
Hold space openly: I listened without judgment, even when perspectives felt uncomfortable.
Encourage equal contribution: I made sure quieter voices had the same opportunity to be heard as the more outspoken ones.
Balance structure with flexibility: While I had a plan, I stayed open to where the conversation naturally flowed.
Impact
Over multiple sessions, I refined my facilitation style.
I was more confident and skilled at navigating both structure and openness.
The feedback I received was deeply encouraging as people found the discussions meaningful.