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ATTACHMENT 6: ACTIONS THAT SUPPORT CONVERSATION
Top Ten Actions
That Support Good Conversations
1. Facilitator creates a safe space by setting the tone for the conversation, remaining
relaxed, non-judgmental, non- authoritarian.
2. Facilitator supports the participants and their conversation rather than directing the
participants and leading the discussion to an intended result.
3. Facilitator lets go of the need to “control” the process and/or content, trusting the
participants to decide what is most important for them.
4. Facilitator maximizes opportunities for participant choice.
5. Facilitator avoids taking sides and advocating for people or ideas.
6. Facilitator is comfortable with conflict, remaining calm and centered.
7. Facilitator holds up disagreement, as well as areas of agreement.
8. Facilitator interacts with participants in a balanced manner making sure everyone
has an opportunity to speak and be heard.
9. Facilitator avoids giving advice and making suggestions.
10. Facilitator demonstrates and models good listening skills. (Listens like a dog -
without giving advice, making suggestions, offering opinions, judging or stealing stories).
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