Part I: Tips from an NLP Trainer: Using NLP on Groups
- Future pace the obvious, and take care of it from the get go. By stating the boundaries.
Example 1: In most groups there is person whom asks too many questions only relevant to them, wrapped into too many stories. Set ground rules and boundaries before this happens. I usually pair that with “the less questions we have, the more I can teach.” It prevents it from happening, but you are also referencing it before it becomes personal.
Example 2: As a group facilitator or NLP Trainer you can expect some individuals wanting too much time with you one-on-one. Before I am pulled aside, at the beginning of the course I explain I am there for everyone, what my role is and isn’t, and how much I also need my own breaks to be the best I an be for the group as a whole. This prevents a lot, avoids me saying no, and the group also starts to help you with this.
Example 3: There is always a person who takes care of everyone else, at their own expense. I reward them and give them a little more, sidebar with them to show my concern for their experience, or publically joke “you are amazing to always to take care of everyone. But I want everyone to know, we need to make sure we take care of him/her too.” It introduces the elephant in the room, and makes people more wary of leaning on this person too much. It is also a compliment.
- In all groups you can have multitudes of different personality types (16 according to the MBTI), and preferences for taking information from the environment (seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling and tasting.) You assume this from the get go, that means you need to facilitate accordingly.
- People have different values, and the brain gets a positive spark when you use positive words. In NLP values are also called criteria. Here are examples of words: honesty, integrity, authenticity, acceptance, love, confidence, passion, powerful, achievement, success, happiness, joy etc. Words that most people respond to positively.
- Mind the introverts! When you plan to ask questions, allow them time to reflect on the answer. Sometimes I already reference a question I will be asking them early in the morning, for them to reflect on for hours. Engage with them one-on-one, and allow them to take the lead how much personal information they wish to reveal. Build a lot of rapport.
- Create a fun and comfortable environment. As an NLP Trainer I like to crack a lot of jokes, and create a lot of freedom and a relaxed environment with all groups I train.
