Pruetts.com

Some groups are more challenging than others to get past the barriers we naturally put up in group settings. Generating genuine discussion in a group takes strategic effort on behalf of the leader. I came up with three principles I try to implement as I lead, hopefully theyll help you as well:

1. Active Listening: As leaders, our behavior is a model for the rest of the group. Developing good listening skills is critical to keeping an active dialogue alive in the group. I find that when I lose eye contact with the speaker, or start shuffling through my notes to find the next question the group tends to drift off topic, or even lose momentum. I have to be careful to listen well to each member of the group so that the others in the group follow my lead.
   

2. Show Genuine Interest: I notice that as I take the time to develop relationships with members of the groups I lead they become more willing to share in the group setting. Developing a genuine interest in them and investing in our friendship encourages them to participate even more.
   

3. Give Sincere Appreciation: I am not always good at this, but I have seen more experienced leaders give honest, sincere appreciation in subtle ways to each person that contributes in their small group and have great success. I try to look for ways to affirm the members in my group as they participate. Something as simple as, “Thank you for sharing that Todd. I think we can all learn something from that insight,” may be enough to show my appreciation and encourage future involvement in the group.