I frequently give workshops and seminars. One thing I have learned along the way is what works for one audience does not necessarily translate well with the next. What works in person may not work in an online environment. Facilitators must be adaptable, flexible, well-organized and confident. I'm new to facilitating online, so I picked up this book to sharpen my skills in this arena. If you're new to facilitating workshops and seminars, I highly recommend this book. Not only does it provide a good background in what to expect and key character strengths needed, author Penny Pullan provides you with templates, checklists and guides to ensure that you are prepared, organized, managing your time effectively and hitting your objectives.
* NetGalley *
I regularly give workshops, and am a confident presenter, but I always think there are new tips someone can pick up. This book is great - readable, with strategies for all people, regardless of levels of experience. There are strategies, examples, checklists and models jam-packed in this book. I highly recommend it especially for those new to presenting, or needing to rethink the objective of their presentation, but it would be of use to all presenters.
* NetGalley *
Perfectly applicable for our current work patterns This book is excellent, perfect for the current blended approach to the workplace. It's written with humour and appropriate real life examples. A must buy
* Amazon *
This book is a must have for anyone facilitating workshops, whether virtual, 'real world' or hybrid. Unlike some other books where virtual/hybrid are an afterthought, the author has built these into the very fabric of the book, helpfully providing advice and tips throughout.
Highly recommended!
* Amazon *
Penny Pullman brings to life how to successfully run a workshop. The book provides clear advice and gives practical hints and tips. I was particularly interested in post pandemic new ways of working and returning to the office in hybrid working style. Penny includes Hybrid working and provides insight for how to make workshops fair for all participants, whether 100% physical, virtual or hybrid-mix.
Having previously purchased Penny Pullmans book 'Virtual Leadership' I had no hesitation in buying 'Making Workshops Work' and have found it engaging to read and very helpful.
* Amazon *
This practical, 'how to' read is focused on helping either workshop novices or seasoned facilitators to improve the workshop experience. She wants us to design workshops first and foremost for collaboration, to help people interact and engage (and with as few slides as possible). She helps to guide us in levelling up the playing field for remote and hybrid participants, encouraging us to think remote first and offering solutions to help with this - think about asking remote participants for feedback first, is just one of many examples.
Jo Twiselton, Change leadership coach & consultant, founder of Twist Consultants
* HR Director *