What do you do if automation and artificial intelligence threaten your role in Large Group Facilitation?

1 Embrace Change

When faced with the prospect of AI and automation encroaching on your facilitation role, it's crucial to embrace these changes rather than resist them. Understand how technology can complement your skills rather than replace them. For example, AI can handle administrative tasks, leaving you more time to focus on the human aspects of facilitation such as empathy and conflict resolution, which are not easily replicated by machines.

2 Enhance Skills

To stay ahead, invest in enhancing your interpersonal skills that AI cannot replicate. Focus on developing deep listening, empathy, strategic questioning, and the ability to foster genuine human connections. These skills will ensure you remain an indispensable part of large group facilitation, as they are the elements that create meaningful dialogue and collaboration, which technology alone cannot achieve.

3 Leverage Technology

Leverage AI and automation to handle logistical aspects of facilitation, such as scheduling and data analysis. This will free up your time to concentrate on the more nuanced aspects of group dynamics. Furthermore, familiarize yourself with the latest tech tools that can enhance group engagement, like real-time polling or collaborative platforms, and integrate them into your facilitation methods.

4 Build Networks

Networking is more important than ever. Connect with other facilitators to exchange insights and strategies for integrating technology into your practice. Building a strong professional network can lead to collaborative opportunities and shared learning, which will help you stay current with trends and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving landscape of large group facilitation.

5 Stay Informed

Keep abreast of the latest developments in AI and automation. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences focused on the intersection of technology and facilitation. By staying informed, you can anticipate changes and adapt your facilitation strategies accordingly, ensuring that you remain a valuable asset to any group or organization you work with.

6 Innovate Continuously

Finally, adopt a mindset of continuous innovation. Experiment with new facilitation techniques that incorporate AI and automation. By doing so, you will not only refine your own practice but also contribute to the evolving field of large group facilitation. Your willingness to innovate and adapt will mark you as a forward-thinking leader in your field.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?