Two Tangibles for a Vigilant Facilitator

We All know that great facilitators have a bundle of competencies that help them succeed in a very challenging job. In this blog, I want to highlight only two tangibles, out of many which are under the control of facilitators. In general, facilitators tend to focus on the core requirements, i.e. the learning side, but sometimes they miss some things that may make the training course an unforgettable journey. The two tangibles I am speaking of, and which in my humble opinion are so important that they should be considered by any vigilant facilitator are: the visual and olfactory aspects.

• Visual aspect: what to wear as a facilitator?
  As you design and polish your speech and develop visual aids and handouts, you should ask yourself “What am I going to wear?”
  Your appearance impacts your credibility. Prepare your appearance as part of your overall facilitation. Here are my two cents:
  
  
  • Stay authentic.
  • Dress like your audience- but one step better.
  • Look polished but not distracting.

  In addition, and what is really important, is that no matter how many times you have delivered the same training course or workshop, it is only natural to sweat a little, if only from exertion. Consequently, if not careful, you risk flashing those big wet stains under your arms. So, if possible, wear a jacket/blazer or wear a shirt that won’t show you sweat. You should obviously test it before doing the training.

• Olfactory aspect: How should I smell?
  When it comes to personal hygiene, a facilitator should be very careful about his look, smell and breath since he is in direct contact with the participants, especially with today‘s highly interactive training sessions. Therefore, if wearing perfume for a training course or a presentation, it is wise to tread carefully. It is important to choose a light scent that won't annoy or overpower your attendees. Certain odors such as lemon or pine, are commonly associated with cleanliness and positive hygiene, while others like spices are not. A facilitator who smells of lemon or pine can be rated as more successful, intelligent, sociable, sanitary, and attractive than one whose clothes smell of onion or smoke.

Just keep in mind that these two tangibles are within your control, and that it is a good idea to project the best image.

What do you think? Should a consultant or facilitator dress up or down? Should they wear perfume? What are your ideas regarding each of these aspects?