Managing Power Dynamics in Workshops

Workshops are rarely neutral spaces. They’re living systems where structure, personalities, and power collide. A single executive, an outspoken expert, or a resistant participant can shift the entire dynamic, often without saying much at all.

Even with the best design, facilitators inherit the invisible hierarchies people bring with them. Titles, expertise, and confidence all shape how people show up. When handled well, these dynamics can spark great thinking. When ignored, they can quietly shut it down.

The issues

1. The boss is here.

When a senior executive joins, the tone changes. Even well-meaning leaders can unintentionally silence the room. Participants get cautious, less likely to challenge ideas or admit uncertainty, exactly the opposite of what fuels creativity.

2. Experts vs. novices.

Mixed groups bring amazing insight, but also tension. Experts can anchor the conversation in feasibility too soon, cutting off new ideas before they take shape. Novices, meanwhile, might hesitate to share an idea that feels unpolished.

3. Grandstanders, bullies, and naysayers.

Some voices naturally take up more space and some participants command the room for the wrong reasons. When they do, others step back. Over time, curiosity gives way to caution if participants fear pushback or dismissal.

The solutions

1. Level the playing field.

Treat everyone as a participant first, and their title second. Skip the usual introductions that highlight role and rank, and start with perspectives or experiences that connect the participant to the session's goals. (Or skip intros completely, and jump right into the work!)

2. Divide and conquer.

Sometimes it helps to separate authority or expertise strategically. Hold sessions for general participants apart from those for senior leaders or subject matter experts. This creates space for open discussion without the weight of hierarchy, pressure, or technical limits too early in the process.

3. Direct the discussion.

Set ground rules early. Capture dissent or strong opinions instead of debating them live, so everyone feels heard but momentum continues. This is a simple way to protect participation and focus.Workshops reflect the systems we work within. Hierarchy will show up whether or not it’s invited. But with some intentional design, we can make space for every voice to be part of the conversation.

Next time you’re designing a session, ask yourself: How do you make sure every voice has room to contribute in the workshop?