Admittedly I was a little green to facilitation, blissfully ignorant of the fallout that was to ensue from not clearly establishing group norms at the outset. Community conversation number 19 and cross-sector diversity set the bomb off!
Cynical Jane Doe had the audacity to full out laugh at John Doe's idea while snidely tossing in "We've tried that before!" just for good measure. Inside I was aghast by the blatant disrespect and instantly fuming. Outside I was furiously fumbling to portray calm and collected.
Jane Doe is a longstanding volunteer: exhausted, overwhelmed and feeling defeated. Sadly, what makes cynical Jane's comment slightly absurd is the all too familiar cry for new community volunteers. John Doe was a brand new face at the table, an untapped potential resource. Unfortunately he got hammered (not tapped) by this rear view mirror mentality that kills optimism.
Be prepared, as increasing diversity is intentionally sought at the table, sparks can easily fly. Strive to make it bomb proof. Consciously use processes and tools that build trust.
BOTTOMLINE
While the WHO (cross-sector representation) is important and achieving the WHAT (rigor around data/results) is important... the secret sauce lies in the HOW (the process whereby relationships are deliberately fostered).
"Collaboration will only move at the speed of trust." -- Stephen M.R. Covey
