As teams work more remotely, the requirement for effective and well-designed remote sessions increases. Virtual facilitation requires a unique set of skills, and acquiring the ability to facilitate online may take time and practice. In this article, we will explore some ideas and tips to help you become an effective virtual facilitator.
Maintaining energy levels is one of the most difficult tasks to do when running an online workshop. When you are facilitating the workshop online it can be difficult to understand your body language. It is therefore important to keep your energy levels up. This will help you to create a more comfortable atmosphere and create a sense collaboration among your participants.
Another challenge when facilitating virtual events is navigating technical issues. These can be a source of frustration for your attendees and cause disruption to your meeting or workshop. It’s important to test your connection and use an alternate hotspot just in case. You should also use an advanced webcam and microphone, and be in a space that’s tranquil and free of distractions.
It’s crucial to inform your delegates clearly about the sessions’ expectations prior to when you begin. Sending workshop materials in advance is essential, as is communicating any logistical details (such local time zones) before the virtual session. You can also increase engagement by calling participants and asking open-ended questions that encourage discussion.