I prefer tables whenever they're available because people will have a place to write if they want to take notes and a place to put materials such as purses. Also, tables can be more comfortable when people can alternate sitting back with leaning on the table. Body Language - The facilitator's demeanor can set the tone for the discussion and sometimes for the whole meeting. A facilitator who is physically quiet, with a deadpan facial expression and a soft voice will probably set quite a different tone than a facilitator who is physically active, facially expressive, and speaks enthusiastically. The physical energy that's displayed by the facilitator tends to be picked up and duplicated by the group.
Low energy begets non-energetic group involvement and vice versa.
When I facilitate a meeting I like to be in the center of the circle and walk around a lot. I try to remember to smile because I know that my natural face is serious and I know that just doesn't work as well as a smile. I lean toward who's speaking. It sounds silly, but people tell me repeatedly that it makes the discussion much more lively and much more fun. I'm certainly aware that many amputee support group leaders have physical limitations that I don't have, and that it may just not be possible for them to be as active as I am.