In my
opinion, the main reason why a consultant or an observer might be used for a
small group is that they are detached from the group and therefore more
objective. Whether running the group or evaluating the group, an objective
person can help improve results because he or she is free of any attachment to
the group that might inhibit honest evaluation of the group.
Additionally,
if a person is participating in the group itself, it’s hard to step back from
the work to evaluate how the work is going. Then, according to the authors of
our book, if a group member does evaluate, “we may give off nonverbal signals
that lead other members to think we are not interested or are critical of the,
the group, or the process,” thus negatively affecting the cohesiveness of the
group.
An
objective person also brings a new viewpoints and insights to the group, which
can help the group look at itself with new eyes, leading to improvements in the
group process.
Hey Lee!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your opening statement that seeking a consultant or an observer is more beneficial because they are more objective towards the group than an existing member would be. It's important when a nonmember can observe and report on group behavior because they have no knowledge of prior group action. The new viewpoints and insight for the group can be incredibly beneficial and lead to further group success.
Great post :)