To You Really Need a Retreat Facilitator?

The short answer, “Yes!”

Answered differently, what is your objection to a retreat facilitator? Are you concerned about time? Money? Value? Benefit? If so, let’s start there.

Remember, Retreats are different than Meetings

Retreats focus on an entirely different purpose and have a different feel than a ‘meeting’. Items that normally appear on your meeting agenda, should not appear on the agenda for your retreat –- especially reports! There should be no regular reports at your retreat.

To make the gathering feel different, a retreat should take place in a different location, ideally one that excites you or your team member to attend. Then you and your team should have a change of perception of ‘time’. Often a new, invigorating environment expands your notion of ‘time’ and changes your mindset into one of learning versus the routine that can transpire from your home base.

Another consideration when planning for a retreat are the pros and cons of using an outside facilitator. I’ll admit, I’m totally biased on this subject, because facilitating retreats is a favorite part of my work. But also because I truly believe there are strong benefits to having a professional facilitating your retreat. That said, here’s a quick list of pros and cons, starting with the cons.

The Cons

The only con I can think of is the cost. Honestly, there isn’t any other downside.

And if you think of the fee of the facilitator as an investment in getting you and your team more engaged and prepared, then it’s actually an investment, and you can move it over to the ‘pro’ column.

The Pros

1. Perspective.

Team members pay more attention to an outsider expert. They are also less inclined to be distracted by work or phone calls.

2. Participation.

When you have an outside facilitator, the team participates in ways that they might not normally engage in. This is because trained facilitators actively look for and call upon the quieter voices in the room and distribute the conversation in a way that ensure all voices are heard and respected. Further, a good facilitator established a sense of trust and camaraderie where others don’t have to worry about the agenda or personalities in the room which can lead to new breakthroughs.

3. Experience.

Professional retreat facilitators are trained and experienced, and usually well worth it.