Facilitation Myths you should ignore

Myth 1: The facilitator needs to have all the answers

Let’s get this straight - your role isn’t to be the expert problem-solver. It’s to create the conditions for the group to explore, think well together, and come up with ideas themselves.

Trying to be the one with the cleverest solution can actually block that process.

Facilitation isn’t about being centre stage - it’s about holding the space. The shift here is simple but powerful: you’re not the one doing the work for the group. You’re guiding the group as they do the work themselves. 

It also takes the pressure off you. When you stop trying to impress and start paying attention to what’s really going on in the room, your facilitation gets better.

Myth 2: You need to be an expert in the topic or industry

Not true.

You don’t need deep knowledge of a team’s product, sector or strategy to facilitate a good session. That’s their job.

Your job is to design and guide the process. You bring structure, clarity, and techniques that help people think, collaborate and make progress.

The value you bring is in how you manage the group, not how much you know about their business. You need to understand people and process but not all the content.

Of course, it helps to have a rough sense of the context. But don’t let lack of subject expertise stop you from stepping into a room and helping a group do their best work.

Myth 3: Good facilitators are all extroverts

Another common myth and another one to let go of.

Yes, facilitation involves speaking to a group. But that doesn’t mean you have to be loud, high-energy or the most outgoing person in the room.

The best facilitators are often quiet, thoughtful and great at listening. It’s not about being the most confident speaker, it’s about being clear, well-prepared and focused on the group’s needs.

Facilitation is a skill, not a personality type. You can build it over time.