Checking-in or checking-out is an easy yet effective way for a team to open or close a session symbolically and in a collaborative way.

This tool is a great way to generate energy at the beginning of a meeting. It provides an opportunity for everyone to speak early. It gets everyone up and moving so blood is flowing. It signals that this will not be a meeting like all others.

One of our favourite conversation formats to let large groups discuss various topics.

This method moves from individual thinking to duos — gradually into a collective conversation.

One of our favourite conversation format is the Fish Bowl!

“IDOARRT” gives participants a chance to contribute, to raise any requests, concerns or additions to the plan. It enables you to clarify all assumptions before the meeting and build a common agreement that fits the needs and expectations of everyone.

The power of the dot! It should be used when there are a number of options or ideas ‘on the table’ which need to be assessed or prioritized.

New Year’s reflection! Reflection or reflective thinking can help us gain a better understanding of the future by looking at the past.

This activity is a very versatile one, that you can introduce in various moments within a session- whether it is to collect quick intel of the group or giving it more space to dive deeper into a specific topic.

Before you dive into the content in your session, choose a warm-up exercise connected to the activity ahead. One that activates the mindset you’d like the group to use, sparks curiosity or offers insight or introduction to the sessions task. Use the hot-start to bridge the gap from intro to content.

As a facilitator, it’s important to check in with your participants and their energy levels.