Negotiating ground rules

It is important to clarify with group members the expectations of both facilitator and members concerning the particular event at hand, especially if the ensuing discussion is expected to become contentious. The time spent at the beginning of a meeting to specify mutual expectations has the effect of surfacing hidden agendas as well as clarifying initial misunderstandings and beliefs.

purpose of negotiating ground rules	oblige both sides to be clear on what they want from the group, and to take responsibility for themselves; allow both sides to establish realistic expectations; establish a climate of trust, if handled well; surface hidden agendas and expectations; create an opportunity to clarify what will and will not be covered in this activity; provide a climate of safety, risk-taking, and openness; make mutual expectations known; promote mutual contact and involvement
possible issues to negotiate	physical comfort (frequency of breaks) trust (confidentiality; respect for others' ideas); competency (addressing fears of saying something stupid; fear of ridicule); repercussions on-the-job for candor here; rights (to disagree constructively); delineation of boundaries ("beltlines;" use of colorful/strong language; in bounds/out of bounds topics); expectations ("rule" that everyone will participate); conflicts (how handled?); responsibility (of group members to be prepared, to make needs known, to take responsibility for selves); negotiable items (agenda items; process issues)
approaches to take	have participants answer individually, "What is the best possible outcome that could occur for you here? the worst?" List on separate flipsheets; discuss. Divide a flipsheet into three sections, and list answers to each question: (a) what I (facilitator) expect of you; (b) what you expect of me; (c) what you expect of each other. In ensuing discussion, add, delete, modify. Achieve consensus on lists. Post at all subsequent meetings, with permission to revise as needed