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What is an Intervention?

Intervention

An intervention is an action taken by the facilitator to improve the functioning of the group. (e.g stopping an off-topic discussion)
Definition
Daniel Wirtz
Co-Founder, Facilitator School
Last updated
June 14, 2024

An intervention during a meeting or workshop is like throwing a lifeline to a discussion that's going off track. Think of it this way: when a meeting diverges from its intended path—maybe spiraling into irrelevant topics or becoming unproductive—the facilitator steps in to guide it back. This could mean refocusing on the agenda, mediating between conflicting points of view, or introducing new ways to engage the group. Essentially, an intervention is about making real-time adjustments to ensure the meeting achieves its goals.

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Intervention

What is the purpose of intervention?

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The primary purpose of an intervention in meetings and workshops is to steer the group back towards productivity and relevance. It's about managing the group dynamics effectively to achieve the objectives set out at the beginning. Whether it's stopping a heated argument or encouraging quieter members to share their ideas, interventions are essential tools for facilitators.

Why is intervention important?

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Intervention is crucial because it ensures that the meeting doesn't just carry on for the sake of time, but instead moves towards a tangible outcome. It helps in maximizing the use of time and maintaining focus among participants, which ultimately contributes to the effectiveness of the meeting. Without timely intervention, meetings can easily become unproductive and directionless.

When is the right time to intervene in a meeting?

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The right time to intervene is as soon as you notice the discussion veering off course. This could be when the conversation is no longer aligned with the agenda or when the energy of the group needs a boost. Effective facilitators keep a close watch on the group’s dynamics and use their judgement to intervene at the most opportune moment to keep the meeting productive.

What are common intervention strategies?

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Common strategies include redirecting the discussion, setting or revisiting ground rules, and using techniques like brainstorming or brainwriting to generate ideas. Other effective methods include calling for a break, organizing a quick energizer, or splitting the group into smaller, more manageable breakout sessions.

How can good meeting preparation help to minimize intervention?

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Good preparation can significantly reduce the need for interventions. This involves setting clear objectives, preparing a detailed agenda, and communicating expectations beforehand. When participants know what to expect and what is expected of them, meetings are more likely to stay on track, reducing the need for corrective actions during the session.

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