What we’ve found in this situation is that with the right approach and techniques, you can still effectively guide the training and ensure a positive learning experience for all participants.
Here are some of our tips on how you successfully facilitate sessions when you’re not an expert on the topic.
Preparation is key
Before the training session, take the time to thoroughly review the training materials and familiarise yourself with the content. Even if you are not an expert, understanding the key concepts and objectives of the training will give you the confidence to facilitate the session. We often spend a few hours with the actual SMEs and ask for their insights, clarifications, and prepare any additional resources that can help us better understand the topic. If that’s not an option then try working backwards. What would an assessment look like for the topic? Use this as your guide to the areas to upskill yourself.
Set clear expectations with your audience
At the beginning of the session, clearly communicate the objectives, agenda, and expectations to the participants. Let them know that while you may not be a subject matter expert, you are there to guide the session and facilitate their learning. We often encourage participants to ask questions and engage in discussions to make the session more interactive and collaborative. This is where a ‘parking lot’ can become handy.
Create a comfortable learning environment
Establish a positive and inclusive atmosphere where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and asking questions. Use icebreakers and team-building activities to build rapport and foster a sense of community among your group. A supportive environment will encourage active participation and collaboration.
Leverage your participant’s expertise
Acknowledge that there may be participants in the room who have more knowledge or experience with the topic. Encourage them to share their insights and experiences with the group. This not only enriches the learning experience but also takes some pressure off you as the facilitator. Use open-ended questions to prompt discussions and draw on the collective knowledge of the group.
Use visual aids
Incorporate visual aids such as slides, videos, and infographics to help convey complex information more effectively. You may not always have time to put high-quality resources together, but consider what will aid the learning experience and simplify complex topics.
If you’re delivering virtually via Zoom or Microsoft Teams, spend some time getting familiar with tools such as polls, quizzes, and breakout rooms. These are all ways to keep participants engaged and encourage active participation. Check out our Virtual Classrooms and Webinars. Planning and effective design are STILL the key! article for further information.
Facilitate, don’t lecture
As a facilitator, your role is to guide the learning process rather than to lecture. I remember being told the quote a long time ago “Don’t be the sage on stage, be the guide on the side”. Focus on creating opportunities for participants to engage with the material and with each other. Use group discussions, case studies, and role-playing exercises to encourage active learning. Your goal is to help participants connect the dots and apply the concepts to real-world scenarios.
Stay flexible and adaptable
Be prepared to adapt your facilitation style based on the needs and dynamics of the group. If a particular activity or discussion isn’t resonating with participants, be willing to pivot and try a different approach. Flexibility is key to keeping the training session on track and ensuring that participants remain engaged.
Seek feedback
Throughout the training session, seek feedback from participants to gauge their understanding and satisfaction. Use quick check-ins, anonymous surveys, or feedback forms to gather insights on what’s working well and what can be improved. This feedback will help you make real-time adjustments and improve future training sessions.
Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)
If possible, collaborate with SMEs to co-facilitate the training or to provide expert input during key parts of the session. For highly technical subjects, this can be essential for success.
Using SMEs can add credibility to your training and provide participants with deeper insights. If your SME cannot be present on the day of training, spend some time with them running through the training materials to consider where you can position real life examples that will help bring the training to life.
Reflect and learn
After the training session, take some time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Its critical when you’re delivering multiple sessions on the same topic. In our opinion, its also valuable for your own professional development.
Remember, “Don’t be the sage on stage, be the guide on the side”.
While facilitating training when you’re not a non-subject matter expert can be challenging, it is entirely possible with the right approach and mindset. By preparing thoroughly, creating a supportive learning environment, leveraging your participant’s expertise, and staying flexible, you can guide effective and engaging training sessions.
Your role as a facilitator is to enable learning and create opportunities for participants to connect with the material and with each other.
Reach out if you’d like to chat more about face-to-face or virtual facilitation.
The content on this page was last updated on 22 April 2026.
