The list below shows some of the key characteristics of a good facilitator:

• Do your homework: understand your community or the community you are going to engage with
• Set the stage: clearly explain what you are going to do
• Manage expectations: clearly explain the potential benefits
• Get to know the participants: learn their names and backgrounds
• Encourage participation: do not discriminate but facilitate all to take part
• Be an active listener: always listen and pay attention even if someone is not speaking in your language
• Be observant: be aware of group dynamics
• Be positive: always encourage and support community members
• Use appropriate language and posture: use language and body language that participants are comfortable with
• Be neutral: make sure you facilitate all views
• Behave according to local rules and customs: respect local customs and decision making approaches
• Record: make sure you document what is discussed so it can be shared with others and that the key points are remembered
• Feedback and questions: ask for feedback and answer community members’ questions