Ground Rules
We believe that group decision making is more efficient and achieves better results when group members have a shared understanding of expected behaviors and attitudes. Like playground rules posted on a fence, meeting ground rules encourage that we play safe, have fun, and no one gets left out.
Good group decisions result not only from the steps we take as a group, but also from the attitudes that each of us bring to the table. Further, to make things better we need to actually do things, take action – not just talk and listen.
The long list of Ground Rules below serves as a menu. For any group we facilitate, we usually settle on ten or fewer Ground Rules we think best suited to the particular group and the particular task at hand.
For Ground Rules to be truly effective, group members need to understand each of them and agree to follow them as best they can. Sometimes, it’s best for the group to make up their own Ground Rules starting with blank paper. Other times, it’s best for the facilitator to propose a set of ground rules, explain them, and ask for additions and revisions. Either way, below is a menu to spark your appetite.
As a Group
These types of things are usually are "held" and managed by the facilitator or group leader
Creative environment
Open minded
No bad ideas
We support risk taking
All views heard
Hands to speak
Listen with respect
Useful record
Take notes
Minutes approved by the group
Reflect the group on the spot
Write in the moment
Capture and document decisions
Group owns the agenda
Group consent to the agenda and changes
All honor agenda timing
Neutral facilitation
Facilitators serve the group
Facilitator empowered to implement the agenda
Trust the facilitator on process
When unclear what to do, facilitator decides
Stay on topic
Stay on the high ground
Basket (parking lot) for later
Establish and honor group decision rules
No one decided 'til we all decide
Silence equals consent
Majority rule - Roberts Rules of Order
Honor all individuals
Introduce new people
Accommodate special needs
Anyone can call a break at anytime
Explain unique acronyms and terms
Attitudes
These types of things are beliefs and values held by individuals
Understanding before judgment
Open minded
Ask questions
Minimize assumptions
Listen to understand
Imagine the other person’s view
If unclear, ask
Tolerance
Assume the best in each
Give the benefit of the doubt
Focus on behaviors, not personalities
We are here for the group cause
Us over me
Fully present
We know the process is imperfect
Don’t expect too much of each other
We probably won’t achieve all things for all people
Positive outlook
We might achieve more than we dreamed
Conflict and tension lead to solutions
Humility
I don’t know what’s best for the group
No one is smarter than all of us
Look for the best in each other
Each person has gifts to share
Appreciation and gratitude
We judge behaviors, not people
Separate behaviors from personalities
Don’t carry grudges
Don’t take things personally
Shared responsibility
For the meeting outcome
For following the process
Have fun
Laughter is good
Jokes welcome, at no one’s expense
Actions
These types of things are actually done by individuals
Do what say
What we say and what we do are aligned
Volunteer with authentic intent
Follow through on pledges
Walk the talk
Minimize distractions
Silence cell phones
No side conversations
Seek win-win solutions
Seek not just a win for me, but for us
Kind and considerate
No meanness
Respect for each other
Better to be kind than be right
Emotion is okay - Aggression is not okay
Play your part
Know your lines
Stay in role
Listen with respect
Listen to understand
No interrupting
Listen to inner self
Silence is valued
Withhold judgment
Gather info until the last minute
No one decides until we all decide
We speak for ourselves
Speak for yourself
Use “I” messages
We speak directly
Minimize gossip and hearsay
Speak our truths
Tell our feelings
Honor group rules
Know and follow policies
Play our parts, know our lines
Confidentiality
Who we see and what’s said here, stays here
Name issues
Write down issues to be resolved
Confront conflict
Stretch for application
Imagine how to apply what we learn
Use what you learn – practice
Learn new things
Explore new language
Share stories, tips, techniques
If lost, ask for directions