Ground Rules Ground rules are explicit rules that the group agrees to follow to help them facilitate productive discussions. Whether the board leader presents the ground rules or the board formulates them collectively, all members should reach consensus on following the ground rules. The ground rules should be written down on an easel pad or recorded somewhere for everyone to see at each meeting. Ground rules are used to facilitate group interaction, not to restrict it. The group can change the ground rules or add new ones based on group needs.
Facilitative leaders help to increase overall group effectiveness.
A facilitative leader encourages their group to share in equal participation by making sure all members have a chance to express their thoughts and opinions on an issue. Untrue assumptions are typically the cause of group conflict. Collaboration ensures everyone on the board has a chance to express him or herself. A facilitative leader asks the board for their opinions or ideas regardless of whether members agree or disagree. If a member has a different view, the leader does not get defensive but rather explores the possibility of this added perspective.