When you step in it

There will come a time when you, a design facilitator, step in it.

Maybe you say something that doesn’t land like you expected or intended. Perhaps you say something that offends a participant.

Someone lets you know the impact, either in a large group setting or privately during a break.

You might think, “I should have known better!”

It’s also possible you think, “Wow, I had no idea. This information is new to me.”

Either way, here are a few responses that are NOT helpful:

• Getting defensive
• Sinking into shame
• Making it about you

Things that can be helpful:

• Listening and taking in the information
• Appreciating that someone was willing to share
• Saying, “Thank you for letting me know”
• Asking and considering how you can take accountability and work toward repair (and following through on tending to harm created)
• Considering what you might do differently in the future

What else would you suggest?

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