A facilitator is someone who designs and runs group processes that make it easy for everyone to contribute and achieves a shared goal. 

When designing, the facilitator creates a structured process that creates a space, atmosphere and framework that will guide a group toward their desired outcomes. 

Whether it’s a one-hour meeting or a two-day workshop, the facilitator is the person who creates an agenda or plan for the session. They’ll liaise with stakeholders to make sure the process is fit for purpose and ensure that the session is flexible enough to account for group dynamics. 

A facilitator also guides and manages the group through the process, ensuring that any challenges are navigated and that the process is as smooth and successful as possible. At each stage, their role is to make the most of the time a group has together. 

They will encourage participation, help conversations be more productive, and also help ensure everything is recorded and acted upon.

As mentioned above, many leaders, teachers and managers use aspects of facilitation in their day-to-day work. What differentiates a facilitator is that they deliberately plan and organize processes to help a group collectively move forward. Facilitators are not there to give orders, provide solutions or gift-wrap meaning. Facilitators enable everyone in the group to contribute to their own success with proven techniques, methods and their own facilitation style

Leaders and team members all come with their own biases, priorities and histories. When solving an organizational challenge, these existing conditions inevitably come into play. The position of facilitator involves remaining neutral, helping the group and offering guidance in pursuit of a common goal.