Situations that deserve a third party facilitator
Determining when you need a neutral third party facilitator is an important leadership task. In times of transition or in situations where the stakes are high, inviting a third party to facilitate a process with your group can make a positive difference. Facilitators can model the skillsets necessary for your group to improve their interactions with one another.
If you recognize any of these situations in your organization, you may need the services of a third party:
- Emotional level between parties is high with anger and frustration
- Communication is poor
- Stereotypical views of positions and motives are preventing resolution
- Behavior is negative
- Conflict is at a high level
- Parties cannot agree on what information is relevant or required
- Various issues are present or the matter is complex
- Values differ greatly and parties disagree on what is fundamentally right
- The task before you make you realise that “this is beyond us”
What is a third party facilitator?
A third party is a trained leader who is recognized for their ability to work well with a group. They get results. Examples of a third party leader may be a Mediator, Litigator, or Process Facilitator. They have usually been certified or have completed a training program. Most important, they have the experience necessary to lead your group through a situation successfully.
Questions for Consideration:
- Does the person have the skills necessary to help move your group forward?
- Where were they trained? When?
- Can the third party provide references from past work?
- Are they available to work with you on your schedule?
- Is their personality a good fit for your group?
How can I find a third party facilitator?
Locating someone who has the skills your group needs is important. Ask your peers who they have used in a similar situation. Authors of books can also make an excellent resource. You can also find the right person on the internet by researching blogs, articles, and events related to your issue or need.
Hiring a third party facilitator
- Form a Hiring Team with the responsibility to come up with a recommendation.
- Find at least three people who meet the skills you are looking for in a third party.
- Contact each person and explain the situation your organization is facing. Let them know that they have been recommended to you and ask if they are interested in working with your group. Answer their questions.
- Ask them if they are interested in making a proposal for consideration of services. Be sure that they outline their approach and provide a cost for their services. Ask them to list 2-3 references.
- Once you receive their proposals, have your hiring team review them. Sort the applicants into first, second and third. Check references.
- Arrange an interview with those your Hiring Team thinks are worth talking to in detail. Decide a clear choice.
- Present your top choice to your leaders for their support.
- Contract the work and set the timeline and budget.
Conclusion
Leaders who decide hire a Third Party Facilitator to lead their group are smart. It is not possible for local leaders to be all things to all people. Choosing an effective third party frees you to participate in the process as well as learn new skills. Follow the steps recommended in this blog to find the right person to do the work necessary to help your group resolve issues and move forward together. You will be glad you did!