The leader must make sure that the project and communication plan remain on track. They need to identify, and explore any issues from employees or stakeholders that have emerged, and review and consider any feedback gathered to date.
Acting as a facilitator, the leader helps to bring about learning and productivity. Communication will be a by product of this by providing indirect or unobtrusive assistance, guidance, and supervision.
He or she listens actively, asks questions, encourages diverse viewpoints, organizes information, helps the group reach consensus, and understands that the individual needs of team members will affect teamwork.
The LEAD model provides a simple methodology for facilitating a participative meeting:
Lead with objectives
When clear objectives are stated up front, group energy is channeled toward achieving an outcome. The objectives shape the content of the meeting.
Empower to participate
In the Lead model, the facilitator is empowered to encourage active participation.
Aim for consensus
Getting the team to consensus will have members more likely to support and carry out the decisions of the team.
Direct the process
How the meeting progresses will influence the quality of the decisions of the team, and influences the commitment of team members.
Leaders must differentiate between process and content.
Content includes the topics, subjects, or issues; process is about how the topics, subjects, or issues are addressed.