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ATTACHMENT 7: ACTIONS THAT SHUT-DOWN CONVERSATION
Top Ten Actions That Shut Down
Good Conversation. . .
1. Facilitator is stiff and nervous…not having fun.
2. Facilitator is friendlier to some than others.
3. Facilitator takes control and establishes him/herself as the “leader” in the role of a
teacher. Remember: the discussion belongs to the group, not the discussion leader. The
facilitators are there to help the participants have a conversation, not teach, push their own
agenda or “get to” a particular outcome.
4. Facilitator makes all the decisions as to how people will have the conversation,
including setting guidelines for them.
5. Facilitator advocates for some people and ideas.
6. Facilitator avoids and ignores conflicts.
7. Facilitator makes judgments regarding comments, ideas and/or progress.
8. Facilitator allows a few people to dominate the conversation.
9. Facilitator inserts opinions and personal stories, being the center of attention.
10. Facilitator does not demonstrate good listening skills and “reframes” what people
are saying and feeling to soften the message.
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