Facilitating change
In a world where collaboration is the cornerstone of progress, the art of facilitation stands as a transformative force. At HumanSide, we understand that facilitation is much more than a skill—it's a catalyst for the changes we need. It's how we develop the leader in all of us, transform customer/client interactions into genuine partnerships, ensure meetings and trainings are effective and memorable, and reshaping conflict into constructive dialogue.
We believe in the power of facilitation to not only revolutionize the business landscape but to also forge a path toward a more connected, understanding, and ultimately, a better world. Through masterful facilitation, every interaction becomes an opportunity to build bridges, inspire action, and create meaningful moments.
WHAT WE OFFER
We Unlock Facilitation Superpowers
Since 2019, HumanSide has led Google’s award-winning programs on facilitation excellence. In collaboration with world-class experts and the best in the business, these workshops and trainings are crafted to transform anyone- regardless of role, tenure, experience - into an exceptional facilitator. Recognized for innovation and effectiveness, these workshops sharpen the essential skills for today's ever-changing world
Before we met the team at HumanSide, we had an amazing existing strategic partner. However, they were going out on their own and needed to honor their non-compete. They got us in touch with the team at HumanSide. I was skeptical anyone could be as good as our existing partner. My expectations and the stakes for a partner to help us design, build and execute a global facilitation program to uplevel thousands of Googlers were high, likely ridiculously high. I don't say this lightly... I don't think I could ask for a better partner. They felt like part of the team, especially when COVID hit and we needed to reimagine everything. From our team meetings, to training in virtual to think differently about the engagement model, they were in it with us - yes there was great work, really great work, but also heart and a lot of future thinking on how we can do what we do better. The team at HumanSide isn't just another partner, they are a critical extension of our team. Since our engagement we've trained hundreds of faculty that are consistently getting top marks, we are elevating what great facilitation is, I am supporting my team's wellbeing and we keep getting asked who I partner with and if they can help my peers - I can't think about our work without thinking about our partnership with HumanSide.
Kelsey Kates
Global Head of Live Learning Experiences, Google
Here are just some of the Facilitation skills our award winning workshops explore:
FACILITATORS, TRAINERS, PRESENTERS
Engage Global Learners
Facilitation Techniques for Non-Native Speakers
Master Time Management
Eliminate Derailers & Optimize Delivery
Cater to All Learning Styles
The Inclusive Facilitation Toolkit
Virtual Presence Powerhouse
Command Online Training Sessions
Psychological Safety
Create a Thriving Learning Environment
Meaningful Connections
Craft Memorable Training Experiences
Tech Savvy Trainer
Essential Tools for Flawless Presentations
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGNERS
Science-Backed Learning Design
Boost Retention & Impact
Unlock Learning Potential
Unleash the Power of Playfulness
Virtual Energizers
Best Practices for Infusing Joy and Energy into a Design
Leaving Space for Authenticity
Best Practices for Designing for Facilitators
WHY CHOOSE THE HUMANSIDE OF FACILITATION
Award Winning
Excellence
Winner of the Brandon Hall Silver Award for innovative learning
Google’s Seal of Approval
This collective trains Google’s most prestigious programs and facilitators since 2020
Global
Expertise
Learn from a diverse team of world-renowned facilitators.
Continuous Innovation
Continually updated to honor the rapid change and rising standards
Are you ready to create meaningful change?
Contact the HumanSide team today to explore who you hope to develop and the best way we can do that together.
At the heart of the Virtual Facilitation Academy is our collective of global facilitators, each a luminary in their own right. With over decades of dedicated facilitation of this program and others, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise. These facilitators are not just trainers; they are thought leaders and pioneers in the realm of facilitation and related fields. Their diverse backgrounds and innovative approaches contribute to a rich, multifaceted learning experience, ensuring that participants gain the best in global facilitation practices and insights.
THE TEAM
The Facilitation Collective
Jon Gordan
USA
Katie Greenman
USA
Mike Kauffman
USA
Jen Hodgins
UK
Susan Nash
USA
Simon McCaskill
UK
Janik Adorf
Germany
Gina Wessels
UK
Milan Pickl Bermjo
Thailand
FAQS
Questions?
Let’s see if we can help!
-
In 2020, we had no choice. After facilitating and leading in-person facilitation around the world we were forced to answer, “how do we translate this virtually without losing the magic?” In collaboration with Kelsey Kates, the head of Global Learning at Google, we launched Virtual Facilitation Academy in 2020 to answer just that. From there, HumanSide continued to lean into elevating the craft of virtual facilitation and evolving the standard of in-person facilitation. Which brings us to today, hundreds of successful sessions later we are offering this work to all.
-
Yes, many of our clients tailor our content to resonate with their audience. We offer bespoke modifications to ensure the material aligns perfectly with your specific needs and goals.
-
Both! While the programs are easily scheduled virtually, we can adapt to in-person formats as per your requirements.
-
However many you need! Each workshop is unique, and we adjust participant numbers based on business needs while ensuring impactful delivery. We have experience facilitating for diverse group sizes, locations, languages and experiences.
-
The training encompasses a variety of topics, including technology management for fewer tech issues, strong presence and storytelling, dynamic dialogue, and flawless awareness with a focus on engagement, time management, and fostering inclusivity.
-
Yes, our facilitators are renowned experts in a wide range of topics and services. Whether you have specific needs or are exploring options, we can provide tailored solutions to meet your objectives.
-
The duration of each workshop varies depending on the content and customization. Typically, they are designed to fit into a busy schedule while ensuring comprehensive coverage of all essential skills and techniques. Average length is 2-3 hours (virtually) or half/full days (in-person).
-
We provide post-workshop support to help participants integrate what they've learned into their daily practices. This includes additional resources and, in some cases, one-on-one coaching sessions. Depending on your goals, we’ll build the best strategy for sustainable impact.
-
Yes, while workshops are ideal for fitting into busy schedules, multi-session programs allow for greater skill adoption and behavior change. Our content is designed to be delivered as one-off workshops or as cohesive modules of a time-spaced program, customized to the needs of the audience.
-
Our workshops are ideal for people leaders, trainers, speakers, educators, learning specialists and facilitators. However, anyone looking to enhance their virtual facilitation skills or seeking to lead more engaging and effective online sessions will find value in our program.
-
Participants will need a stable internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone. We often use interactive tools and platforms, for which instructions and support are provided beforehand.
-
There are no strict prerequisites, but a basic understanding of virtual communication platforms (Google Meet or Zoom) can be helpful. Our workshops are designed to be accessible to beginners and valuable for experienced facilitators alike.
