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Inside scoop from our experts: Identify three competencies of a council facilitator

HCPro's Weekly Update on the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®*, March 3, 2009

This week, a reader asks what competencies a council facilitator should have. Read the response from our advisor Meryl Montgomery, MSN, RN, director for the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® at The Medical Center of Central Georgia in Macon.

Q: What competencies should a council facilitator have?

A: Before selecting a facilitator for each of your shared governance councils, make sure he or she possesses the following three basic competencies that are necessary for holding successful meetings:

1. Leadership. Group facilitators should be leaders who are comfortable in providing direction to a group. At the first meeting, facilitators must provide a clear introduction of themselves, even if they already know the group members. Facilitators should also offer the overview of what will happen for that meeting and all future meetings.
2. Encouragement. Group facilitators serve as the encouragers of the group. They invite people to be a part of the council group, monitor the group atmosphere, and welcome new members. Facilitators should also encourage group interaction and help the group members be comfortable with each other by providing an opportunity for them to become acquainted with each other through group interactions.
3. Teamwork. Group facilitators should build teamwork. They can encourage group members to connect with each other and share ideas in a collegial and collaborative environment. 

Editor’s note: Do you have a question for our experts? If you'd like us to consider your query for publication, please send it to associate editor Cameran Erny at cerny@hcpro.com.

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