
Introduction
9
flipchart expecting you to write. This shifts control from the group back to the
trainer, hence the phrase “I’m in charge—I’ve got the pen.” Try it—it works.
The role of observers. Sometimes you might face a request from a man-
ager who wants to sit in on the course and observe. It may be difficult to
refuse such requests directly. Point out that any observers will be encour-
aged to participate fully. In this way, the presence of an observer becomes
less obtrusive to the course and far less inhibiting to the participants. If,
however, a senior manager insists on merely observing, be aware that the
presence of a nonparticipant ...