ABSTRACT
Building relationships is a key first action for a meeting facilitator, especially when the group will be working together planning change. Beyond the simple greeting (“How do you do?”) is the stage of socialization intended to build a bridge strong enough to carry the group forward. The facilitator must help create relationships that last using a variety of rituals at the outset, such as name tags, sign-in sheets and icebreakers, which are the most important steps to pursue when introducing people to one another.
William Lofquist’s theory of community development speaks about how this initial process works:
People can become allies in working toward mutual goals. This, in turn, can reduce the potential for polarization within the group.
Persons who own the problem of concern (those who will benefit from the community change) can become resources, giving them access to positive roles, using their perspectives and encouraging them to use their energies in positive ways. This can result in enhanced self-esteem.
