In today’s modern workplace, the role of a Personal or Executive Assistant goes far beyond managing calendars and handling communications. Assistants are now expected to contribute to strategic discussions, streamline collaboration, and support the smooth functioning of teams.
One of the most valuable tools in achieving this is the often-overlooked skill of facilitation.
What Are Facilitation Skills?
Facilitation is the ability to guide discussions, manage group dynamics, and help teams reach decisions effectively. It’s less about directing and more about enabling others to contribute, solve problems, and align on outcomes.
Core facilitation skills include:
- Active listening
- Asking open-ended questions
- Steering conversations tactfully
- Managing time and energy in a group
- Resolving conflicts constructively
- Keeping people focused and engaged
Why Facilitation Skills Matter for PAs and EAs
As the central connectors in organizations, Personal and Executive Assistants often play a quiet but crucial role in meetings, projects, and internal communication. Here’s why facilitation skills are especially powerful in this role:
- More Efficient Meetings
Assistants are often responsible for setting up or even leading meetings. With facilitation skills, you can:
- Prepare purposeful agendas
- Ensure balanced participation
- Guide discussions towards action
- Follow up with clarity
- Bridging Departments
PAs and EAs frequently coordinate between teams. Facilitation helps you:
- Navigate complex group dynamics
- Maintain focus on shared objectives
- Translate different viewpoints into actionable decisions
- Supporting Leaders in Decision-Making
You’re the right hand to leadership—being able to help synthesize information and drive discussions forward is a high-value skill that executives deeply appreciate.
- Leading Training and Change
From onboarding new staff to launching new systems, assistants are often the “go-to” resource. Strong facilitation ensures:
- Clear delivery of content
- Active engagement
- Successful adoption of new processes
Easy Facilitation Techniques to Try
You don’t need to be a professional trainer to start using facilitation tools. Here are some simple but effective methods:
- The Parking Lot
Keep meetings focused by jotting down off-topic ideas for later discussion. - Round Robin
Go around the room (or Zoom) giving everyone a chance to speak—great for inclusive discussions. - Dot Voting
When deciding between options, let team members vote on their top choices using stickers, marks, or digital tools. - SWOT Analysis
Guide your group through analyzing Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats when planning or reviewing.
How to Build Your Facilitation Skills
Facilitation is a learnable skill. Start here:
- Practice Often
Volunteer to lead team check-ins or brainstorming sessions. - Observe and Learn
Watch skilled facilitators and note their techniques. - Seek Feedback
After a meeting, ask for constructive input on your facilitation style. - Take a Course
Look for short workshops or online modules on facilitation or communication.
In Summary
Facilitation is more than a soft skill—it’s a leadership tool. For Personal and Executive Assistants, it means showing initiative, improving team outcomes, and proving your value in a more visible way.
By mastering facilitation, you step confidently into a more empowered, respected, and influential version of your role.
