Challenge the workshop premise before diving in

Pre-Align on Workshop Intent

Before a collaborative workshop, conduct dedicated 'setting the stage' sessions with all stakeholder groups, especially those in positions of power. Explicitly discuss and align on the workshop's goals and expected outcomes to prevent misdirection....
Challenge the workshop premise before diving in

Address Goal Misalignment Mid-Session

If significant goal misalignment becomes apparent during a session, pause the primary activity. Dedicate a short, focused segment to explicitly check in and realign on the workshop's purpose with all key participants present. Example The facilitator realized the...
Challenge the workshop premise before diving in

Leverage Aligned Goals for Direction

If a clear, aligned goal exists, use it as a reference point to guide the discussion. Periodically, 'zoom out' to remind participants of the shared objective and evaluate if the current path serves that goal. Example When the workshop started drifting...