Photo by: Yan Krukau via Canva
What makes a training session truly memorable? Is it the content, the facilitator, or something else entirely? Often, the answer lies in the group dynamic. When learners feel connected to one another, the experience becomes more engaging, supportive, and impactful. A cohesive group is more likely to participate, ask questions, and share opinions without fear or judgement.
Group cohesion takes effort, and it’s something you can build intentionally from the very start. Here are eight practical strategies to help build stronger connections in your next session:
1. Start with a low-pressure icebreaker. Give the groups a specific amount of time to list everything they can find that they all have in common. This helps break the ice and ease participants into the session.
2. Use small group activities early (within the first 30 minutes). These activities encourage collaboration and build trust that lasts throughout the course.
3. Model openness and curiosity. Trainers, you set the tone for the session. Sharing about yourself helps to create a safe and respectful learning space.
4. Use more icebreakers as the course progresses. Increase the depth and self-revelation of successive icebreakers until the group is truly comfortable together.
5. Create an identity for each group. Have each group come up with a name or nickname for their team.
6. Keep small groups intact for the entire course. Keeping groups consistent throughout the course promotes accountability and stronger peer connections.
7. Incorporate group reflection. Use moments for small group debriefs or reflection prompts (e.g. “What’s one takeaway so far?”) to reinforce collective learning and shared experiences.
8. Include opportunities to have fun. Humor, friendly competition, or themed activities lighten the mood and help learners relax around one another.
Creating cohesion doesn’t require a complete redesign of your training, but it does take intention. When learners feel like they’re part of a group, they leave the session with both stronger skills and stronger connections.
Which technique will you incorporate in your next session?
Additional Resource: How Great Facilitators Build Group Cohesion [Video]
For even more tips, check out our Advanced Instructional Techniques workshop. You’ll learn how to prevent problems, increase motivation, and make your courses enjoyable, just to name a few.