Greetings from a chilly Toronto where I’ll be based for the next couple of months! ❄️
I often hear a lot of people say that when you lead online sessions. “you need to entertain your audience“.
But do you? 🤔
Sure, grabbing and maintaining your group’s attention is crucial.
And yes, we all want to keep things lively to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.
But focusing solely on entertainment can lead to some significant pitfalls👇
1/ ⚠️It keeps interaction at surface-level. Your group enjoys the moment. But there aren’t any real aha! moments or takeaways as a result.
2/ ⚠️Your group members become passive participants. Your audience waits for your next “pony trick”. And loses interest if the excitement dips.
On the flip side, engagement is all about the depth and quality of the experience.
It’s how your participants connect with you, the content, and each other.
Think of it more like guding a journey rather than performing a show.
There are big benefits when you focus on engagement👇
1/ ✨It deepens impact. It creates long-lasting insights and results for the group.
2/ ✨Group members are active contributors. Participants don’t just sit back; they co-create the experience with you.
Now you may be wondering, “but Gwyn, can’t it be both?”. Like Edutainment?
Don’t get me wrong. Focusing on engagement doesn’t mean that it can’t be fun.
Things like storytelling, games, and interactive tools can make online experiences enjoyable and memorable.
And research shows that positive emotions that come from play and enjoyment increase attention and motivation.
When it comes to creating truly memorable and meaningful live online sessions ✨engagement✨ is the key.
What’s your take on the entertainment vs engagement debate? Hit reply to this email – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
This Week’s Facilitator Finds 💪
In this section, you’ll find curated events, resources, tips, and tools worth checking out.
🎥How to create a custom video in your Zoom Wait Room. Dive into this brilliant 7-minute tutorial by Tatiana Rodriguez from Teaching Test Kitchen, where she demonstrates how to craft engaging Zoom wait room videos using Canva.
🧊12 Actually Not Awkward Virtual Ice Breakers for Remote Meetings. If you are looking for some fresh ideas check these out from the Krisp blog. For a short one I like #9 “Two Word Check In”. For a longer one I like #11 “Common Ground”.
🙌How Improv Teaches Us About Acceptance. Speaking of play, I loved this LinkedIn post from facilitator and play expert Gary Ware that breaks down the #1 rule of improv, “Yes, and…”
⚡️Special Coaching Offer for Quest readers
Do you have a project for 2025 that you want to get off the ground, but need a little extra coaching and accountability to actually make it happen?
Expert life skills coach Connie Wansbrough (yes, my wonderful sister 😀) has a special online coaching offer for you. Contact her for a free 30 min consult at conniewansbrough@gmail.com.
💌 Thanks for reading The Quest
I always love hearing your feedback and suggestions. Just hit reply to share your thoughts and ideas.
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Creatively yours,
Whenever you are ready there are 2 more ways I can help you:
👉Custom coaching & team training. Book a free 15-minute zero-commitment call with me to see how I can support you and your team.
👉 Live Session Design Video Course. Live Session Magic gives you a proven system for designing consistently high-quality online sessions. Join the interest list here and be the first to get access.
👉5-week Live Online Course. The Breakthrough Facilitation course gives you tools, personalized feedback, and a proven framework for designing and leading high-engagement live sessions. Join the interest list and be the first to get the next cohort dates and discounts.
