Facilitators Get Nervous Too!

Regardless of how many years you have been facilitating or leading groups, getting nervous is normal. In fact, it is helpful. Being a little nervous keeps us sharp and focused, has us check our assumptions, and ensures we don’t take too much for granted. However, there is such a thing as being too nervous – where our ability to perform well is hindered.

So, how can we minimize nervousness and be fully present with the participants who have gathered to learn or meet?

Below are a few ideas to consider:

• Do what feels helpful. Whether you need a cool glass of water close by, or breath mints in your bag, or a large wall clock in sight, ensure you have what you need to feel your best. If you can’t secure these items from your host, bring them yourself.

• Check the room well in advance. Location, location, location – this is true for learning events and meetings as well. Ask for photos of the space weeks before your event or check it out in person well in advance to determine what the opportunities as well as the challenges are in and around your room. Then, design/facilitate for what you discover. The most important thing is knowing what you are dealing with.

• Do a dry run. Practicing aloud – standing up and speaking as if your participants are in the room – helps you internalize your content and reduce nerves. Saying the words aloud engages your brain more deeply than silent reading, improving memory and confidence. If possible, invite a colleague to role-play as a participant. The more realistic your practice, the more natural your facilitation will feel.

• Check in with the host. Confirming plans as you know them and learning small changes in the schedule in advance will help you stay calm and feel prepared. Knowing changes or challenges in the agenda or participants can prove to be especially helpful.

• Set up the room in advance. Own the space and make it work for you as well as your learners. Knowing you have optimized the space and checked technology will help give you a sense of calm and preparedness. Doing this the day or evening before will help you sleep better.

• Take your own priority materials. Whether you have your preferred markers, Post-it notes, tape or card stock, take responsibility to bring it yourself. Although most hosts or venues will say they can supply all you need, don’t leave key materials to chance. Dry markers or the wrong Post-it note dimensions may hinder best performance, from you and/or your learners.

• Tap into biology-backed strategies. When you are nervous, your body responds with increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and muscle tension. Take a few long, deep breaths, consider a brisk walk during a break, and keep energy levels steady by staying hydrated and eating well. 

• Build in connection time. Shifting the dynamic from “presenting to” to “being with” not only helps learners feel welcome but also helps you feel more connected and less like you’re performing for strangers. Before the session, think strategically about breaks and other moments you can have informal chats.

• Dress comfortably. Although it is good to dress professionally, there is nothing worse than having sore feet or uncomfortable clothes. You want your attention to be on the learners and their learning, not the fact that your shoes feel too small.

• Check the technology. There is nothing more anxiety provoking than needing to download a program or problem-solve minutes before you present. Give yourself plenty of time so you can relax after all is set up and ready.     

Know what you need and ask for what will help you. Your role is to make the learning and/or work easier. Find ways to ensure your nerves are in control so you can offer your best to those who are coming.