The Accordion approach to Program Design

I often speak about the Accordion approach to Design which can be really useful to consider pre-program whether you are running a retreat, group coaching session or workshop. Many facilitators find that a common challenge is just not having enough time to "squeeze it all in". For year's I've been advocating the KEEP IT SIMPLE and LESS IS MORE principles for Coaches who join me for the Group Coaching Essentials program. Sometimes thinking about it is just not enough, because after all, we often don't know what will transpire until we are in front of a group.

When looking at your next program design, why not apply the accordion approach. Very simply, ask yourself:

1. What exercises/content/questions can I elongate - accordion out - if I need to?

2. What exercises/content/questions can I shorten - accordion in - if I need to?

It's always good to spend a short time pre-program considering the pinch points and what you absolutely want to make sure the group covers.

Hope that you find this useful with your next program! For more info on it, you can check out what I have to say in Effective Group Coaching

Warm regards,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton

Group Coaching Essentials.com

Phone: (416)996-8326

Email: info{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com

PS - We had a great start to theOctober Group Coaching Essentials program last night. Coaches who are still needing to acquire some CEUs for December recert may be interested in our 3 programs which will be offered in November. 6.75 CCES from the ICF (including 4.25 CCEs for Core Competencies). 4 Spaces remain for the Nov 2nd start (Tuesdays 9-10:15 am ET). A new program start date has been added for November 16th (Tuesdays 2-3:15 pm ET). Hope that you will join me!