Four Activities for Opening Group and Team Coaching Sessions

Having a robust toolkit of activities in your back pocket is a must have for team and group coaches.  Building onto other posts here at the Group Coaching Ins and Outs blog (Four  Ways to Create Coaching Closure with Groups etc), today's post covers four of my favorite activities for opening group and team coaching sessions.

Trust and connection is key to successful coaching conversations, and in a group setting, it is likely that people will not know each other. In a team setting, history, roles and power differentials can also impact trust and connection.

These four activities can be adapted for the different groups and teams you work with:

1. Personal Logos: I've used this activity with multiple groups and teams. With teams it is always really interesting to see what themes emerge from the logos people choose. Instructions are simple, ask people to create a logo which represents what they bring to the group or team. Have them write it down as part of their name card. Get each person to introduce themselves according to their logo. Have the group or team notice the patterns, similarities etc.

2. Visual Cards -
Visual cards can provide a new "spark" for conversation. Lay photographs (your own or a photo deck like Conversation Sparker Cards) out on a table and have people select the card that either:
1. Represents that they bring to the group;
2. Represents their hope for the work together;
3. Signifies where they see the team right now (for teams)

If you have time, you may want to ask people to select a second photo which represents:
1. What they hope to gain or achieve through your work together
2 Where they would like to see the team going (for teams)

Check out one of the blabs I did last fall, dedicated to working with visual cards. As I mentioned in my July Team and Group Coaching Newsletter (subscribe here), one of my biggest sellers at last month's ICF Mid-West Conference was the 40 Ways To Work With Visual Cards E-manual. Check it out here.

3. Patrick Lencioni's Personal Histories
 - Many coaches and trainers love the resources included the Patrick Lencioni's Five Dysfunctions of Team Playbook. One you will want to look up and consider using is his Personal Histories exercise. I have used it with executive teams from mining, full teams involved in television, and also with teams in customer service. When time has been available, it's been a valuable exercise in building connection at the start of one day and longer sessions.

4. And the generic go-round - Who are you, what's brought you here. For virtual shorter calls giving people an opportunity to connect and hear each other's voices can be important and can help with boosting engagement and ownership of the call. When people come to a virtual call and realize that something is a little different with their introductions, it may be easier to cut through the assumption that your program is goingt to be another experience of "Death by Conference Call"

People remember the start and end of things and a memorable kick off can be very important.Taking time to focus on creating the space for trust and connection helps people feel safe to take the conversation to a deeper level, and really bring themselves into the conversation.

What's going to help you feel confident around that? What are your next steps around this?

Have a great week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, PCC

Group Coaching Essentials | Potentials Realized  

Author of Effective Group Coaching (Wiley, 2010) and From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (Jossey-Bass, 2013)

About Us: Jennifer Britton is author of Effective Group Coaching (Wiley, 2010) andFrom One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (Jossey-Bass, 2013) . Since 2004 she and her company, Potentials Realized, have supported thousands of coaches, trainers, and leaders, design and create more impactful team and group programs (in-person and virtual). Jennifer offers customized programs for organizations, as well as virtual public training programs. Our areas of specialty are team development, leadership and coaching. Our 2017 programming starts during the week of January  9th and will include: The Group Coaching Essentials teleseminar (8.75 CCEs), The Advanced Group and Team Coaching Practicum (10 CCEs), and the Mentor Coaching Group for ACC/PCC portfolio routes. Our 2017 Learning Lab and Design Studio Group for Coaches who want to build their business and expand their group and team programs starts January as well (2 group calls on Fridays throughout 2017)

33 Ways to Promote Your Next Group Program - Workshop, Retreat, Group Coaching

33 Ways to promote Your Next Group Program:

Not quite sure as to how you want to let others know about your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program? Here are 33 ways to get your creative juices flowing.

Announce it in your next e-newsletter
Blog About It
Tweet About it
Invite the Media to your Event
Talk about it at your speaking engagements
Participate in tradeshows attracting your idea group member
Hold a special free call in advance
Send postcards with a special personalized invite out
Talk about it with current clients
Tell your family and friends about it and have them talk about it
Network through professional associations
Get Really Clear on Who you Want to Attend and target their
Retreat listing services
Teleclass listing services
Craigslist
Partners with others
Offer an early bird special for early registration
Offer a discount for people who sign up with others (where laws permit)
See if the facility you are holding it at can promote it
Put it in your marketing budgt
Notices
Email signatures
Notify current telesemianr/group coaching clints
Write articles – build your platform!
Go out to colleges and universities to speak
Make sure that there is a notice on your website
Send a news release about the event
Put up local notices where appropriate (community centers etc)
Announce it to other social networks you belong to in their promos section
Create a Facebook announcement
Donate a spot in a silent auction
Create a series of podcasts which add value and announce your event
Develop a viral marketing campaign

Remember successful marketing is about building relationships, adding value and consistently sharing your message. You may not undertake all activities today, but which ones do you want to add to your marketing plan this quarter?

Warm regards,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton

Author of Effective Group Coaching - Check out the book for many more ideas, and structures to support you in your next group coaching marketing

6th Annual Year End Group Programs Call - You are invited!

I'm back from Orlando to our first snowfall here in Toronto. I had a blast at this year's ICF conference and wanted to thank the coaches who joined me on Saturday for my session on Group Coaching. I will be gettin the materials out later this week to you as promised.


In the meantime, I wanted to remind everyone about my 6th Annual Year End Group Programs call. The call will be held this Friday, December 11th from 12-1 pm ET at (218)862-1300, access 503003. No charge to join other than your own long distance phone charges. Do join me for some time to reflect on where you want to take your group programs next year (workshops, retreats and/or group coaching), as well as some of my favorite tools from this year.

Looking forward to having you join me on Friday!

Warm regards,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC
Group Coaching Essentials
Phone: 416.996.8326
Email: info{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com

PS - I've got two other programs happening this week if you are eager to get programs starting in January. The Group Program Virtual Intensive will be held this Wednesday evening from 7-10 pm ET as well as on Wed December 16th. I'm also offering an accelerated version of the Group Coaching Essentials programs starting this Friday at 10:30 am ET for coaches who are eager to launch their programs in January. This program is accredited for 6.25 CCEs, and 4 of the calls will be held in December, with the final call in early January. Contact me if you'd like to join either program.

February Programs: Group Coaching, Business Growth, Exercises

If you are looking to enhance your business success this month, or looking to expand your work into the area of group coaching or team work, I hope that you will consider joining me for one of our February programs.

This month's program line-up includes:

Group Coaching Essentials - Tuesdays from 12 - 1:15 pm (ET)/9-10:15 am (PT)

Starts Tuesday February 17th. Calls held on Feb 17, 24, March 10, 17 plus a 5th call in April 09(date set by group).

This program is designed for coaches who want to expand their work to the group coaching environment. The program is a resource-rich, interactive program focusing in on the design, marketing and implementation of your own group coaching program. Packed with tips, tools and templates to make your process easier, this program includes 5 calls, 1-1 lazer sessions with JEnnifer, and an 80 page manual. Space is limited to 6-8 coaches as it is a hands-on, interactive proram. Click here for more information or to register.

Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups: Friday February 20th from 9-10:30 am (ET)

This 1.5 hour teleseminar focuses in on exercises you can use during your next workshop, retreat, team or group coaching program. Participants also receive an electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual. Cost: $59 US.

For more information or to register, click here.

Group Program Design Virtual Intensive: Saturday Feb 21 and 28 (1-4 pm ET) both days

When was the last time you carved out 6 hours to focus on your group program design work? Join me for a six hour Virtual Intensive where we will move from program idea to skeleton. the focus of this program is on getting into action! For more information, click here. Cost: $125 US

90 Day BizSuccess program: Tuesdays from 4-5 pm ET starting February 24, 2009

Designed for service based business owners (coaches, consultants and trainers) this program provides you with 90 days (3 months) of focus, support, accountability and tools for your business success success.

Some of the topics we cover include:
* Creating a Powerful Vision and RoadMap for Your Business
* Busting through Limiting Beliefs about your business
* Essential Business Systems (budgets, marketing plans etc)
* Leveraging Your Time and Network
* Social Networking 101: Twitter, Blogging, Facebook - Make it work for you!

This 3 month group coaching program for business owners includes 2 group calls per month, a 15 minute lazer coaching session each month, the rich BizSuccess manual bursting with resources and systems for your business, as well as 3x a week Biz Tips delivered to your inbox. Cost: $347 US for the 3 month program. Click here to register.

Group Call Dates: February 24, March 10, 24, April 7, 21, May 5th and 19th. Final Call on May 26th, 09.

Questions, want more info or want to register offline? Please give me a call at (416) 996-8326 or drop me an email.

I look forward to having you join me.

Warmly

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC

Group Coaching Essentials

Potentials Realized

5th Annual Group Program Call - Friday December 12

I hope that you will join me this Friday December 12th from 12 - 1 pm (Eastern) for our 5th Annual Year End Group Program Call. This call is for anyone working on retreats, workshops or group coaching programs -- coaches, trainers, managers, leaders!

It's hard to believe that this the 5th year! This year's topic is 9 Essential Tips for Your 2009 Group Programs.

There is no cost to attend other than your own long distance charges. Call in at 12 noon (Eastern) at (218) 486-1300, access 567160.

I look forward to having you join me!

Warmly

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton

Group Coaching Essentials

Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Upcoming Programs - Get a Head Start on your Spring programs!

I'll be holding a number of phone based programin the next few weeks for those of you who are looking for some quick booster shots for your own group programs. It's perfect timing for those who are gearing up for spring group program launches!

I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following:

Friday February 1, 2008 from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST) the Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat Program. This one and a half hour teleseminar covers 10 Key tips and tools to keep in mind as you design, deliver and market your next workshop or retreat program, for the public or corporations. You also receive a 20 page e-workbook as part of this call, which is full of tools for use after the call. You are also encouraged to bring their specific questions to the call so you can walk way with exactly what you need. Space is limited to 6 to ensure maximum interaction. Cost: $45 US (which includes e-workbook and 1.5 hour call. Long distance charges are extra).

Tuesday February 5, 2008 from 6:30 - 8pm (EST): Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups. Looking to inject your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program with some new exercises? This 1.5 hour call covers the A-Z of exercises for teams and groups. You will leave the call with at least 25 new exercises to use as icebreakers/warmups, energizers or closure. You also receive the electronic edition of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual (85 pages) as part of this call. Space is limited to 6
Cost: $59 US


Download a registration form here to register for these calls.

For those looking for a more in-depth program in supporting them to launch their own group coaching program for the spring, I will be offering two separate classes of the Group Coaching Essentials program in February. Both classes will be held on Thursdays starting February 21st. Choose from:
10:30 - 11:45 am (EST) OR
8 - 9:15 pm (EST)

Both sessions are held by phone and sessions will be held on February 21, 28, March 6 and 13, plus a call in early April (at a date convenient for the group).

If you are looking to launch your own group coaching program, coaching workshop or coaching retreat this spring I hope that you will join me for the series. You'll leave the program with a new toolbox of resources, activities and templates to support you in your group coaching program development, implementation and marketing. This program has been offered since January 2006 and coaches from all over the world have now participated. Click here for more information about the program. Cost $250 US or Canadian. Space is limited (usual program size between 4-6 coaches. Maximum 8).

I will be offering a special mid-winter registration rate for coaches who sign up with a colleague for the February Group Coaching Essentials program. You will each enjoy a 20% discount on your registration (total investment $200 US or Canadian each). This pricing is only available for the February session. A great deal as I am also available for 1-1 support throughout your program (as well as for a pre- and post- 1-1 session). If you were to purchase all that time doing individual work with me your cost would be over $1500. I look forward to having you in the Group Coaching Essentials program next month.

To register for any of the programs, please give me a call toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com. You can also download a registration form here.

Warmly,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPCC
Potentials Realized
GroupCoachingEssentials.com

Group Coaching Essentials starts Wednesday evening

ttJust a quick reminder that the Group Coaching Essentials program starts Wednesday evening by phone. We'll be meeting on Wednesdays from 8-9:15 pm (EST) on January 9, 16, 23 and 30th, as well as for a fifth call in March (at a time convenient to the group).

If you are looking to develop your own group coaching program this winter or spring, and want a supportive environment to boost your momentum, and add onto your toolkit in terms of resources, templates and exercises for group coaching, I hope that you will consider joining me tomorrow evening.

The program covers:
* The Foundation of Group Coaching – What is Group Coaching, Best Practices of Group Coaching, and Adult Learning Principles
* The Nuts and Bolts of Developing Group Coaching – Making Your Program Development Fun and Effective: Technical issues, Techniques and Templates for Developing and Running Your Program
* Marketing Group Coaching – Knowing Your Audience, General Marketing Principles and Materials
* Filling Up Your Toolbox – Exercises and Other Resources for Group Coaching

Included in your program registration are:
* 5 x 75 minute teleclasses
* The 85 page Group Coaching Essentials manual
* Pre and post course 1-1s with me
* Up to 2 hours of Support from me as needed throughout the program (at no extra cost - value $400).

Cost: $250 US or Canadian

The Group Coaching Essentials program is a very interactive, intimate teleseminar program. Program size is limited to 4-6 coaches to ensure maximum attention. Most coaches complete the program with at least one, and sometimes two, new group coaching designs and marketing ideas.

If you are interested in grabbing one of the remaining spots in this month's program, please email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or call me toll free: 1-866-217-196o.

The next Group Coaching Essentials program will be held in February on Thursdays from 8-9:15pm (EST) on February 21, 28, March 6, 13 plus our fifth call in April at a time convenient to the group.

If Workshop and Retreats are what you want to create, there is a new start date for this month's Workshop and Retreat Essentials program. This program will be held on Mondays from 8-9:15 pm (EST) on January 14, 21, 28, Feburary 4 and March 3, 2008. For more information, click here.

Upcoming January 2008 Programs

I have a number of program offerings this month designed to kick start your year. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following this month:

Programs Related to Workshops, Retreats and Group Program Design and Facilitation:

Workshop and Retreat Essentials – Mondays 8-9:15 pm (EST), Monday January 7, 14, 21, 28, plus a fifth call March. Cost $250 US
This program includes a treasurechest of tools, tips and resources to support you in your workshop or retreat development. I also cover essential tips to developing your own virtual retreats. Five sessions, and pre and post-course 1-1s with me, along with a 90 page manual.

Group Coaching Essentials – Wednesdays 8-9:15 pm (EST), January 9, 16, 23, 30, plus a fifth call in March. Cost $250 US
The ever popular Group Coaching Essentials program will be offered again this month. If you are a coach wanting to offer group coaching to your clients this program is for you. Full of tips, tools, exercises and other resources, you will leave the program with your own group coaching program design. Space is limited to 6. You also have pre and post course 1-1s with me, and a 90 page manual.

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat – Friday February 1, 2008, 12 – 1:30 pm (EST). Cost: $45 US
For those wanting a booster shot of tips and tools, this program covers 10 essential tips for your group programs, ranging from development tips, to marketing and implementation solutions. You also receive the Tips and Tools Workbook as part of this program (also sold separately).

Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups – Tuesday February 5, 2008, 6:30 – 8pm (EST). Cost $59 US (includes an electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual).
Looking for some exercises to spice up your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program? This 1.5 hour teleseminar is for you. Bring all your questions about exercises and have them answered, and leave with a bulging new exercise toolkit.

Business Development Programs for Small Business Owners:

Biz Success Virtual Business Planning Retreat
6 hours of structured focus on your business planning and growth. This retreat is held virtually by phone and each hour of the program involves group activity (10 – 15 minutes) with the remaining part of the hour. 3 different sessions are offered this month to ensure your business starts off great for 2008! Take your pick from:
BVR-081: Saturday January 5 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR -082: Sunday January 13 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR-083: Thursday January 17 and 24 (7-1opm EST both evenings)
Your investment: $150 US (includes the Biz Retreat, a group follow up call, and the Biz Success Planning Manual)

90 Day Biz Success Program – Fridays 12 – 1 pm (EST), Starts January 11
A small group coaching program for new and experienced business owners who want to amp up their business results. The program includes 7 group calls on topics including business vision, leveraging technology for your business, Essential Business Systems and developing your Business Roadmap. You also receive 36 e-biz tips by email and have pre-and-post program 1-1s with me. Space is limited to 6. $297 for the program.

General Interest:
Women on Fire Group Coaching - Tuesdays from 8-9pm (EST) from January 15 - March 4, 2008

If you don’t feed the fire, it will go out. Where do you need to fan the flames?
Imagine if you could sit around a roaring bonfire every week for 7 weeks with a community of women who are looking to create more spark in their lives, sharing stories, gaining insights and tools, and supporting each other to step up to a more passionate and intrinsically fulfilling life. Join Sharon Miller, PCC and I as we create a virtual campfire, enabling you to ignite, explore, rediscover, and focus on creating a life on fire! (Space is limited to 8). Cost: $300 US or Canadian.

Download a program registration form here for all our Winter Programs here. Registrations are accepted by phone, fax and email. Payment options: PayPal, Visa (by phone), personal check.

You can reserve your spot at any time by calling toll free (across North America): 1-866-217-1960 or by emailing me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com.

And coming soon -
The announcement of the May 2 and 3, 2008 Group Program Intensive in Toronto. Two days of information rich, skills based activities to support you in your group program design and facilitation. Information packages will be available early next week with an early bird discount in effect to March 1, 2008.

Have a wonderful month,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

My favorite posts from 2007

I hope that you have been enjoying your holiday and have managed to fit in some downtime. I've been relishing the time that I've had to spend with my family as well as some recharging of my batteries.

I was back in the office today facilitating the Group Program Virtual Intensive. I've run two of the programs in the last few weeks and continue to be amazed at the results participants are taking away. Most participants have taken away not just one, but two, new group programs as a result of the six hours of structured focus and exercises the program offers. Most participants have said one of the most beneficial parts of the program is the coaching that goes with the program to keep them in momentum.

If you've missed the last two programs, don't worry, I've got another one scheduled for March 10 and 12, 2008 (7-10 pm EST both evenings) and I will likely announce another new session for those who want to get a jumpstart on their group programs in January.

Here's a list of my favorite blog posts from the Group Coaching Ins and Outs blog for the year. I hope that you will take a moment and click on over -- you are guaranteed to take away some new tips for your programs!


1. Group Facilitation Tip – Co-Facilitation:

2. 5 Ways to Use Index Cards for Your Group Programs

3. Current Trends in Learning and Development:
6 current trends from this year's ASTD International Conference in June 2007

4. Selecting a Venue for Your Group Program:

5. Dealing with Difficult Participants:

6. Group Failitation Tip – Debrief Exercises

7. Group Facilitation Tip – Preparation:

8. Best Practices for Group Coaching

9. Group Coaching Best Practices Part 2

10. Workshop, Retreat and Group Coaching Checklist:

What were your favorite blog posts here this year? Which ones did you find most useful? As always, please feel free to comment below!

Warm regards,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Join Me Friday for the Tips and Tools for Your Workhshop or Retreat Teleseminar

Are you looking for some quick tips and tools for your next workshop or retreat program? Join me this coming Friday, October 26th from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST) for a 1.5 hour teleseminar. During the program we will explore 10 tips and tools to amp up your next group program.

By the end of the program, participants will:

• Explore common challenges for group program leaders, and what to do to navigate them;
• Acquire a basic understanding of adult learning principles;
• Have a framework to "Know Your Client"
• Brainstorm ideas on marketing and promotion for your next event
• Learn how to not reinvent the wheel with your group programs and other service offerings
• Get ideas about engaging exercises to include in their group programs
• And learn about two of my favorite best practices

This is an interactive, intimate teleseminar, with space limited to 8. Participants are encouraged to bring any, and all, questions you have about group programs to the call. You'll also receive a 20 page workbook to take forward for your own group program development. The cost of the program is $45 US.

To reserve your spot and pay by PayPal, please visit: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/workshoptipsandtools. If you have questions or would like to register by phone, please call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960.

I hope that you will join me on Friday for an action packed hour and a half!

With best wishes,

Jennifer

Workshop, Retreat and Group Coaching Program Checklist

My trip last week was a reminder of how important it is to be organized when you are running programs away from your home base. For several years I ran programs in countries outside of where I was based. This meant that I had to get pretty savvy on making sure that everything was ready well in advance to the workshop or retreat. There really was no running back to the office to pick up something that I had forgotten.

I developed a pretty in-depth checklist of things to remember prior to a program and wanted to share some of these with you today.

Here are some of the pieces of my checklist that has been tried and tested throughout the years:

* Venue Arrangements (see my separate post on this topic)

* Participant Materials
a. Make Sure you have sufficient copies of materials for all participants plus one
b. Copy of handout/participant material for yourself
c. Your own design notes
d. Materials required for any exercises

* Computer and LCD Projector
a. Necessary powercords
b. Mouse/Pointer as needed
c. All passwords as needed

* Miscellaneous training kit:
* Glue Sticks, Flip chart paper, masking tape, blue tack, index cards of varying sizes,
* post it notes, markers, pens, pencils, stickers,
* participant name tags or name cards
* Prizes for participants
* Clock/watch to keep the time

Some of these materials may be provided by the venue -- check with them, as well as what additional charges they may levy.

Are there any other items you add to your travelling training kit? Please feel free to comment below.

Have a wonderful week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials - the next Group Coaching Essentials program starts on Thursdays from 8-9:15pm (EST) on October 11th.
Toll free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer{AT} potentialsrealized.com

Selecting A Venue for Your Group Program

Selecting a Venue for Your Workshop, Retreat or Group Coaching Program
Copyright 2007 - Jennifer Britton, All Rights Reserved

Selecting the right venue for your group program - whether it is a workshop, retreat or group coaching program - can be a time consuming and challenging process for those who are not logistically savvy. Here are some things to consider when selecting your next venue:

1.Ease of accessibility for your participants – Consider the needs of your participants:
* Is there parking?
* Is it free/at cost?
* What modes of transport will participants be able to take to get there?

2.The environment –
* What is the feel of the venue?
* Does it match the environment you want to create?
* Is there sufficient space for you to undertake the exercises you want to do?
* What changes if any will need to be made with the room layout?
* Are there additional rooms available if you need breakout sessions?
* What is their policy regarding participants using other parts of the facility – any areas out of bounds?

3. Room booking charges –
* How much will it cost to retain the space?
* Are deposits refundable? What is their payment policy?
* What is their cancellation policy?
* If numbers change near the towards the launch of the program, what impact will this have on pricing?

4. Insurance – Many facilities require that you hold sufficient liability insurance. What are their requirements? What insurance do you need to put in place?

5. Meals –
* What dietary requirements do your participants have? Food allergies?
* Can your needs be met by the facility? In your budget?
* What are their offerings/special packages?
* What are the exact times for breaks and other meals?
* What is the venue’s policy on ordering or providing lunch?
* Will there be sufficient time with your schedule to have all participants eat leisurely through the lunch period? What if numbers change before the program? Can meal amounts be modified? Up to what date?

6. Equipment Rental – often venues will provide certain pieces of equipment (flip charts, markers) at cost or sometimes free. Clarify what is included in the room rental, and what might need to be rented at additional cost. Also inquire what their policy is regarding bringing your equipment in from your organization – is this allowed?

These are some of the nitty gritty issues you may want to consider as you select your next venue. Are there other things you consider when selecting your group program venues? Please feel free to comment below.

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Group Coaching Essentials
Workshop and Retreat Essentials starts Wed Sept 12th (8-9:15 pm EST Wed by phone: Sept 12 and 26, Oct 3 and 10/07)
Email: jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

To reproduce or reprint this article, please contact Jennifer at jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com

July Program Line-up - Boost Your Programs this Month

As we are moving into the heat of the summer, I am asking myself, “When will it slow down?”. It’s been a busy spring and summer for me, as it has been for many of the coaches I have been working with. Summer is one of the most popular times of year for participants to take in a workshop, a retreat or invest in themselves. Are you leveraging this?

This month, we have a number of programs to support you with your own workshop, retreat or group coaching program development, implementation and marketing. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of our upcoming programs:

Group Coaching Essentials – Starts Tuesday July 17th
(Tuesdays 10:30 – 11:45 am EST: July 17, 24, August 2 and 9/07, plus a call in September – By Phone)

The Group Coaching Essentials provides you with a step by step process, and toolkit, to support you in developing, marketing and implementing your own group coaching program – whether it is in person, by phone, corporate or personal. This is an interactive, hands-on program.

The program covers:
* The Foundations of Group Coaching – What it Is, Best Practices, Adult Learning
* The Nuts and Bolts of Developing Group Coaching – Making Your Program Development Fun and Effective: Technical issues, Techniques and Templates for Developing and Running Your Program
* Marketing Group Coaching – Knowing Your Audience, General Marketing Principles and Materials
* Filling Up Your Toolbox – Exercises and Other Resources for Group Coaching

You receive:
· 5 x 75 minute teleseminar calls
· A pre- and post-course individual call with me
· A 75 Page E-Manual
· Support as needed from me throughout the program (by phone and/or email)

"Group Coaching Essentials is a wonderful laboratory for learning key concepts about adult learning, instructional design, group dynamics and more. Jennifer Britton's wonderfully organic facilitation style allows each session to be a flowing, dynamic group conversation that is rich in learning and personal insights! I recommmend this program for anyone who wants to gain confidence, knowledge and resources in preparation for launching their own group coaching program"
- Erin Curran, CPCC, http://www.erincurrancoaching.com

Cost: $225 US. To register, contact Jennifer at 1-866-217-1960 or pay by PayPal here . Space is limited to 6-8 coaches.

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat
Tuesday July 17th: 4 – 5:30 pm (EST) – By Phone
During this one and a half hour call we will cover ten tips and tools to get you moving forward with your workshops and retreats, including exercises, marketing tips and networking advice. I will discuss systems and tools to make your program development and marketing easy and fun. You will leave the call with a number of concrete tools to add to your own workshop/retreat toolbox. The teleseminar also includes an E-Workbook to assist you in your workshop design process.

“I found the "Tips and Tools for Your Workshop and Retreat" most interesting. It opened up a whole new perspective to me about marketing and how to organize my workshops. And most of all how quality information is much better than quantity, and to stay focused at all times. I thank Jennifer for the time she took to put this workshop together and her quality of service and dedication. Thank you Jennifer!” - Inga Bertlemann, Coach, Pathways to Bliss
Cost: $39 US

Register and Pay by PayPal here: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/workshoptipsandtools


And if you are looking for something for yourself, I hope that you will consider:
Your Balanced Life Virtual Retreat - Saturday July 14/07 (10 – 4pm EST)
Join me and 7 other participants for a one-day virtual retreat, held by phone. You can retreat from the comfort of your own home or cottage while gaining valuable tools for balance. The group meets by phone for the first 15-20 minutes of each hour, with the remaining time spent undertaking individual exercises off-line.

The program includes the one-day virtual retreat, a group follow-up call and a retreat manual. You also receive a follow-up 30 minute coaching call with Jennifer.

Cost: $97 US.
For more information, to register and/or pay by PayPal here: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/balancevirtualretreat

Relationships on Fire! – A one day retreat for committed couples
Saturday August 25/07 (9:30 – 4:30 pm) – Huntsville, Ontario, Canada
Join myself and PCC Sharon Miller, with your partner/spouse or significant other to take your relationship from good to great.
During the day you will acquire practical tools to:
IGNITE: Rekindle your friendship, connection and relationship
REDISCOVER: Enhance understanding of each other’s needs, dreams and what’s important
EXPLORE: Go beyond your habitual understanding of each other, yourself, and your relationship
FOCUS: Take away a Couple Game Plan and Alliance
Early Bird pricing of $399 Cdn/per couple is in effect to July 15th and includes the one-day retreat, lunch, a couples workbook and retreat manual, plus a follow-up couple and group coaching session (by phone). For more info please visit: http://www.retreat2muskoka.com/.

I look forward to hearing from you!

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer[at]potentialsrealized[dot]com

Workshop and Retreat Essentials Teleseminar starts Monday the 18th

Are you looking to launch your own workshop or retreat program this summer? If so, I hope that you will consider joining me for the Workshop and Retreat Essentials teleseminar program which starts on Monday June 18th from 7 - 8:15 pm (EST). We will be meeting for five teleseminar sessions on June 18, 25, July 9, 16th and one session in August (scheduled at a time convenient for the group).

The Workshop and Retreat Essentials program gives you an entire toolkit for developing successful workshop and retreat programs for your clients. From design tools and templates, to exercises to marketing tips, the program makes designing your programs fun, simple and exciting! Since the program launched in October 2004 (originally called the Training Essentials for Coaches program), over 100 participants have taken it from across North America, Europe and as far away as New Zealand. I hope that you will consider joining me!

The program includes:
* 5 x 75 minute teleseminar sessions
* A pre- and post-course 1-1 coaching session with me, and additional support as requested throughout the program
* An 85 page manual (delivered in modules electronically)
* A supportive environment to take your ideas and turn them into reality
* Dozens of tools, templates and exercises you can use right away
* Participation in free quarterly community calls for alumnae of the program

Topics include:
* Adult Learning Principles, Learning Styles, the Nuts and Bolts of Developing Effective Programs
* Workshop and Retreat Design Tools and Templates
* Logistical tips to make your programs run smoothly (including checklists)
* Exercises you can use in your own programs
* Marketing Ideas for your programs

Click here for a full description of the program.

The program is limited to 8 participants to ensure maximum interaction during our sessions. The cost of the program is $225 US (with PayPal and phone based Visa payment options).

For more information about the program, click here.
To download a registration form and reserve your spot, click here.

I hope that you will consider joining me and 7 others this month! To reserve your spot, call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960, or use the PayPal link at the bottom of the program page.

Questions? Please feel free to email me at jennifer(at) potentialsrealized(dot)com.

I look forward to having you join me this month. Note the program will not run again until October and the price will be going up then.

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer(at) potentialsrealized(dot)com
Web: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com

June Booster Shots to Amp Up Your Programs

I will be offering a number of programs in June to support you in your workshop, retreat and group coaching program development and marketing. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following programs:

Workshop and Retreat Essentials: This five-series teleseminar program supports coaches, trainers and other professionals who want to create high impact, interactive workshops and retreats. The program covers the foundation of adult education, workshop and retreat design tools and templates, exercises to include in your programs, and marketing ideas. The program includes: 5x 75 minute group calls (limited to 8 participants), a 75 page manual delivered as weekly modules, and 1-1 support from me as needed throughout the program.

Workshop and Retreat Essentials will be held on Monday from 7:15 - 8:15 pm (ET) on June 18,25, July 9 and 16th, plus a call in August at a time convenient for the group. If you are looking to offer your own workshop and retreat programs later this summer or in the fall, I hope that you will join me. The cost for the program is $225 US. More information can be found here.

Virtual Retreat - Group Program Creativity Day: Friday June 22: 10 - 4pm (EST)
The ever popular virtual retreat will run again this month. This six hour program provides space for you to focus on the development and marketing of your own group program. When was the last time you carved out a day to focus only on your own programs. We will meet each hour for 15-20 minutes for a group exercise, and the remaining part of each hour will be spent working individually from our own home/office on our programs. Each hour has a different theme. For more information about the program, click here. The cost for the program is $119 US and includes a 30 minute follow up coaching session with me, as well as a group follow up call.

Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Teleseminar: Wed. June 20: 8:30 - 10 pm (ET)
Are you looking for some exercises to include in your next program? This one and a half hour teleseminar covers different exercises you may want to use in your own programs - from icebreakers, to energizers to closing activities and evaluations. The teleseminar also includes an electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups (TM) Manual which gives you a new treasurechest of activities (25) you can use for your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program. The telseminar, including the manual costs $59 US. For more information, click here.

If you have any questions about any of these programs, please do not hesitate to contact me toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or by email at jennifer[at]potentialsrealized[dot]com. I hope that you will join us. Most sessions are limited to 8 participants to ensure individualized attention. PayPal links are available at the links above, or you can pay by Visa by phone. Registration forms can also be downloaded at the site.

I look forward to having you join me!
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat : Friday at 12 noon (EST)

This Friday May 4th I will be hosting a 1.5 hour teleseminar program entitled "Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat" from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST).

Looking for some quick tips and tools to inject into your programs, or just starting to think about how to create a workshop or retreat? This one and a half hour session provides you with nine tips and tools to get you moving forward with your workshops and retreats, including exercises, marketing tips and design advice. Participants are also encouraged to bring their own questions to the call.

The teleseminar also includes an E-Workbook to assist you in your workshop design process.

The cost for this program is a steal at $39 US and will get you moving forward quickly with some new tools for your toolbox, and ideas for your programs.

You can register by emailing me at info@potentialsrealized.com with Tips and Tools in the Subject Line, or calling me toll free at 1-866-217-1960. Download a registration form here. Payment is accepted by Visa (by phone or fax) or PayPal (link to be sent to you by email).

I look forward to having you join me!

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Group Coaching Essentials ~ Potentials Realized

If you want more than just a few tips and tools and a whole system to put your workshops or retreats together, the next Workshop and Retreat Essentials program will start on June 18th on Mondays from 7-8:15 pm (EST). This is a two month program, with calls held on June 18, 25, July 9 and 16th with a fifth call held in August (at a time scheduled by the group). You also have access to me for 1-1 support as needed during the course of the program, and receive an extensive reference manual. The cost for this program is $225 US. For more information on the Workshop and Retreat Essentials program, click here.

Amazing Resource for Group Activities and Exercises: Wilderdom.com

Keeping in the theme of powerful and engaging exercises for small groups, I wanted to share a great link with you to Wilderdom - www.wilderdom.com. If you are looking for some free resources to incorporate into your next program check out their index of group activities at www.wilderdom.com/games. There is also great information about outdoor and experiential education, as well as quotes on inspiration, life and wilderness.

As a former outdoor and experiential educator myself, I was so pleased to come across this fantastic site which originates from James Neill in Australia. Thank you James for putting this amazing body of work together.

Enjoy checking out the site! I'll be back later this week with more on games, and a special offer on my Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual.

Jennifer
Jennifer Britton ~ Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

A few spaces still remain for the next Group Coaching Essentials program which starts next Tuesday October 3rd at 10:45 - 12 noon(EST). The dates for the program are: Oct. 3, 17, 24 and 31st (note a slight change to originally published dates as a client has booked me to run an all day retreat on the 10th).

You'll participate in 5 x 75 minute teleseminars on the HOW TOs for developing and marketing your group coaching programs. You'll also receive a 70 page manual, full of information, resources and links to support you in your program development, marketing and implementation. In addition, all participants can access me for 1-1 meetings throughout the course of the program at no extra charge. The cost for the program is $225 USD.

This program is hands-on and interactive - space is limited to 8 coaches. Click here for an overview of the program. Downloadable registration forms are available here. Please email or phone to reserve your spot. I look forward to serving you!