Moderators like being with Respondents/Participants who are responsive, present, candid, easily heard and understood, concise, and who listen attentively to questions and instructions. Obviously, what I’m leading up to is these are also qualities that good Moderators embody.
We certainly as Moderators are going to more easily elicit below top-of-mind comments when we are fully present without artifice, because Respondents are more likely to reveal themselves candidly when that is evident in the person in front of them.
The qualities a good moderator demonstrates while conducting a Qualitative Research Event (QRE) are mostly the same as those demonstrated in all aspects of their life:
Warmth and Empathy – Being mindful of accepting people respectfully and be sensitive to the situations of the moment by sensing appropriately the depth of a discussion in which they are engaged.
Kind yet Firm – Sensing and enabling the balance required in being assertive or even permissive is important.
Actively Involved – Not ego driven; listening to what’s being said rather than assuming they know what others mean or where they are going in a conversation or discussion. They ask (probe) to get at underlying thoughts. Their expression of genuine interest in unfamiliar or unexpected ideas put forth, regardless of their own experience or beliefs, fosters a feeling of safety and acceptance.
Encouraging All – They do this by giving equal positive attention to everyone present by tone of voice, visual cues, and timing of affirmative comments. Inviting additional ideas not yet expressed on a topic or alternative points of view shows a willingness to hear others unique opinions or perceptions.
It’s one thing to say “there are no wrong answers,” quite another to demonstrate it.
Self-starters /Initiators – A willingness to get the party started is often required. Quick thinking and flexibility, combined with an interest in what forwards the group rather than turning inward by thinking the group is wrong is the ‘go to’ response.
Sense of Humor – Regarding humor, a Master Moderator I’ve been privileged to know said “…you might as well start laughing now…’cause you’re gonna laugh later.” This is all to often the case, starting with not taking oneself so seriously that the foibles of humanity is lost in the moment. You simply keep going, mindful of the purpose at hand. Those listening will see that the greater intention is expressing your question or comment.
Managing Time – An awareness of time constraints in any situation is intelligent and thoughtful.
Sufficient Knowledge Base – One doesn’t have to be a subject matter expert to lead or moderate in a discussion. Asking and listening remain key elements in a meaningful dialogue.
Good People Skills – Some training and practice in the sciences of human behavior as well as acquired skills in the dynamics of leading and moderating in groups in a variety of settings is practiced everywhere.
In conclusion, much of what is mentioned here may be influenced by early home training and the School of Life. The good news is that what’s been mentioned here will produce positive results when practiced and demonstrated everywhere. So why not BE the demonstration.
Written by: Romaine Bailey