BEGINNING GRAPHICS TRAINING
“REVEALED: ALL THE INSIDER TIPS OF ADDING THE CROWD PLEASING, ACCELERATED LEARNING AND MAGICALLY COLLABORATIVE EFFECTS OF ‘INTERACTIVE GRAPHICS’ TO YOUR CONSULTING, FACILITATION OR TRAINING TOOLKIT … whether you are an artist OR feel you have zero artistic ability!!!”
Christina Merkley’s
MEETING GRAPHICS 101
WORKSHOPGraphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation Demystified in This Two-Day Training
For Consultants, Facilitators, Trainers, Coaches, Budding Graphic Recorders & Scribes and Other Group or Team Leaders or Support Staff.
This INTRODUCTORY TRAINING is for those who want the foundational, base skills of interactive-graphics to apply in consulting, facilitation, training, teaching, project management and coaching settings.
MEETING GRAPHICS 101 is an information packed, highly experiential, fun, and illusion shattering event where you learn the foundational theory and skills ---
--- then roll up your sleeves and do it yourself!
You emerge with a thorough understanding of the different ways interactive graphics can be used with groups and individuals …
… and are pleasantly surprised by how much YOU can do yourself after just two days.
Plus you meet other interesting, inspiring people doing cool work in the world –-- members of your global graphic tribe!
Research States That Up to 87% of the Population Are VISUAL THINKERS. Learn To Tap The Power Of VISUAL LANGUAGE To MORE EFFECTIVELY Reach YOUR Clients!
Christina Presenting Her Definitions Chart With The Four Main Applications Of Visual Work. |
Participants Learning Basic |
People Retain Around 65% Of What They SEE And Only 15% Of What They HEAR. The Use Of VISUAL LANGUAGE Promotes LASTING IMAGES And RETENTION Of IDEAS.
Before we discuss the workshop in depth, it probably makes sense to first discuss what Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation are, eh!
Chances are, if you are reading this web page, you already have an idea… but just for the record here are a few simple definitions:
WHAT IS GRAPHIC RECORDING AND
GRAPHIC FACILITATION ANYWAYS?!Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation are two different but related meeting technologies.
Both are visual ways of creating and reflecting information to and from a gathered group.
However, (and unfortunately) many people confuse and incorrectly use these terms inter-changeably …
… this is a SAD mistake (one that you’ll correct and thoroughly understand when you take the workshop!).
But for now … check over these terms so you know what you are getting yourself into...
GRAPHIC RECORDING is the more illustrative and passive of the duo --- a visual record of meeting proceedings created spontaneously in the heat of the moment by a more-or-less silent scribe … most commonly created to the side or back of where participants are. The large wall size artifact that the “Graphic Recorder” creates is a visual summary --- a wall size mural that captures the main highlights, key points, and overall emotional tone. |
Graphic Recorder Lesley Evers Silently Recording at Back of the Room. |
Graphic Recording is great for key note speeches, presentations, dialogue and café circles – where information is of a GENERAL, HIGH-LEVEL nature. Creates interest, vibrancy and a human element to your room … and terrific visual files that can be integrated into all kinds of post-meeting takeaways (reports, photos for web posting, custom framing, etc).
Here’s a few examples of what Graphic Recording looks like:
Graphic Recording From Mediation Summit (large view)
Recording at Women’s Funding Symposium (large view)
Graphic Recording From Internet
Marketing Workshop (large view)
So, that is Graphic Recording in a nutshell …
FYI … it’s a bit of a generalization but folks interested in Graphic Recording tend to be more artistic people who want to support meetings while those attracted to Graphic Facilitation are more structured / information based folks … people who LEAD and GUIDE meeting processes.
Now here’s some information on Graphic Facilitation …
GRAPHIC FACILITATION is the more active and integrated application. The record is again captured live and spontaneously from the content of the group – however in this method the emerging visuals are created via structured facilitation. |
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EVERYONE co-creates the record TOGETHER (instead of the silent scribe doing it off by his or her self) – facilitators, scribes and the participants focus front-and-center on the large size paper displays and fill them in as they go.
Participants SEE the displays as they are being created and ADD their own content and perspectives as they are built –-- allowing all to understand, remember and build upon the thinking that is emerging in the room.
While the displays are typically not as ‘pretty’ as graphic recording – graphic facilitation content is HARD WON and VERY FUNCTIONAL in nature.
It’s a systems approach – a very organized way of ‘doing a meeting’.
People literally ‘get on the same page’ and have records of all the process steps that lead to their overall conclusions, agreements (and disagreements) and resulting decisions.
People who do this work alone (meaning they do both the lead facilitation and the graphics at the same time) are called “Graphic Facilitators”. (and yes, it is possible and can be nicely done by just one person) …
Graphic Facilitation is also commonly performed by a Graphic Facilitation Team ( a lead facilitator (who may or may not do any graphics themselves) and a very valued graphic scribe (the Graphic Recorder).
Graphic Facilitation is great for strategy and planning sessions where you need to make collective decisions: strategic planning and visioning forums, scenario sessions, brainstorming and product/service development, board or leadership retreats, etc. Displays are photographed and turned into visual meeting reports that can be easily shared with and understood by those not in attendance (great for communicating the whys behind strategic decisions!).
Examples of what Graphic Facilitation looks like … both of the charts below were facilitated using pre-prepared templates via The Grove Consultants International’s Strategic Visioning Process …
SPOT Matrix Work With Governmental Dept. (large view)
Vision & Action Plan for a High School (large view)
For tons of additional information and many more examples of Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation see: www.makemark.com (my initial site that is fully dedicated to graphic recording and graphic facilitation).
Interesting right?! … Now, you can see that Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation are two different methods but build off of the same underlying set of graphic skills (that is why they are both included in a workshop entitled “MEETING GRAPHICS”) …
… we’ll cover the whole gamut of ways that visuals can be integrated into group and individual settings …
Lots for everyone … no matter what point of the “graphics spectrum’ you want to play in (you might even find yourself attracted to things you haven’t even considered yet!) …
There is also something else that is really significant that you should consider … no matter which visual method you most gravitate to --- and that is …
‘GRAPHICS’ GIVES YOU AS A HUGE ADVANTAGE no matter how you cut the cards …
… given just how rare professionals with these highly effective skills are …
… and how TRULY STUPENDOUSLY BIG the visual thinking market is --- you are going to be in great shape however you choose to apply your skills because –
87% OF THE GENERAL POPULATION ARE VISUAL LEARNERS – AND MOST GROUP PROCESSES TOTALLY NEGLECT AND EVEN WORK AGAINST PARTICIPANTS NATURAL LEARNING STYLES
… how truly insane when you think about it!.
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Hard to believe but SADLY true … …however that neglect translates into a HUGE OPPORTUNITY for YOU … …. to make your own mark in the growing visual thinking marketplace !!! |
In short --- its an amazing DIFFERENTIATOR for you …
“IMMEDIATELY APPLIED WHAT I LEARNED TO IMPROVE MY FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT TRAININGS FOR PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES --- RESULTS HAVE BEEN FANTASTIC!”
“I experienced the power of graphic facilitation as a participant in several strategic planning sessions that Christina led. Her sessions were so impressive that I signed up for Meeting Graphics 101 to learn the skills for myself. I immediately applied what I learned to improve my financial management trainings offered to provincial government employees. The results have been fantastic – feedback forms consistently come back with comments like ‘Lisa’s graphs and drawings made things WAY easier to understand!’, ‘I love the giant government org. chart because I finally see the “big picture” of how government works!’ and ‘The best part of the course was the diagrams – they really helped explain the concepts’. Our company, clients and my colleagues have all been won over to the graphic way of working! And I love these new methods that fit in with my brain-based approach to adult learning. In fact, I’ll be back to learn more in the next Graphics Bootcamp!”Lisa Arora, Financial Management Instructor,
Three E Training, Inc. www.3etraining.caWith good interactive-graphic skills in your toolkit, you totally stand out from the crowd. You offer a needed, sought out and highly effective service that few, if any, of your competitiors have. This stuff is so rare that even if you live in a big city or region that happens to house a bunch of graphic types (like California for example) there is still plenty of go around. I get calls all the time from clients who can’t find help for their meetings because all the visual practitioners are booked on the same days!
“EXCELLENT SKILLS --- MAKE YOUR SERVICES STAND OUT AS A CONSULTANT – WELL DONE!”
“Excellent skills for facilitators and trainers to take your exercises and learning pieces to a more professional level. This will make your services stand out as a consultant – well done!”Anne Schultz, Leadership & Change Management Consultant / Former Director, MA Leadership & Training Program,
Royal Roads University
So, know that awareness is growing! --- the leap in the last few years has been startling and with my websites and networking funnel I have my pulse on this industry and I tell you its thumping away!
It truly is an ABUNDANT UNIVERSE – this stuff is hot and things are just beginning to really heat up, so your timing is perfect! …
And that’s not all …
RESEARCH PROVES THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE VISUAL WAY OF WORKING AND SO DOES
OVER 30+ YEARS OF USE IN SOME OF THE
WORLD’S MOST WELL-KNOWN COMPANIES!Let’s take a little look at the many, proven benefits of working visually and why it makes sense to invest in these specialized and in-demand skills …
After all, these methods have been used (kind of like a well kept secret) for over 30+ years now in the most well-known of corporations, governments, not-for-profits and consulting companies around the globe --- including but certainly not limited to ---
Hewlett Packard, British Broadcasting Company (BBC), Stanford University, Readers Digest Funds, The Kellogg Foundation, Kraft, Eriksson Data, The U.S. Army, Microsoft, Women’s Funding Network, American Institute of CPAs, Disney, Mars Incorporated, etc.
… the genie is out the bottle, this stuff is known to work and its fast becoming a regularly requested way of doing a meeting …
“Research has shown that visual language used in meetings shortens meeting time by 24%. Visual language aids the decision-making process, 64% of participants made decisions after seeing visual displays”. - Millie Sonneman, Hands on Graphics
Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation (and the other visual methods you will learn in this workshop) have a proven and tested track record ---
--- if its good enough for those top name companies its definitely not too ‘out there’ or ‘uber-creative’ for your environment – these are respected, highly valued and in-demand skills.
Here’s even more info on why it totally behooves you to learn these skills …
THE BENEFITS OF While Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation are often pleasing to the eye … these methodologies are WAY MORE than just pretty pictures! That’s because they … |
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In Order To Make A Critical Decision About Any Complex Topic, You Need To Truly See The Information!
People Who Have Difficulty in Expressing Themselves in Words Often Find Pictures and Diagrams Helpful and Are Stimulated to Participate by Seeing Them Used.
“The real appeal of Graphic Facilitation is that it’s more than just a fancy way to take notes; it’s a technique for helping groups reach consensus and resolve disputes.” |
… as that long list of benefits shows, this way of working is much more than pretty pictures or ‘art’ …
…. or even limited to addressing just one learning style;
Different People Have Different Learning And Thinking Styles. Graphic Facilitation Combines Three Thinking Modalities (Visual, Auditory And Kinesthetic) And Utilizes Both Sides Of The Brain … The Most Effective Way To Engage Different Types Of People With Different Learning Preferences!
… Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation are SOPHISTICATED LEARNING and COLLABORATION technologies – that align with how our human brains naturally work and process information …
“The human brain is essentially a massive parallel processor. But for a group thinking together, the group brain needs to be a serial processor. The group memory is the consciousness thread that is used to keep the group focused on working on one thing, and working in a logical sequence. Group memory is the stuff you post on the walls or otherwise collect where everyone can see it. It is where you keep all comments, ideas, discussion, agreements, thoughts, votes and decisions, so each person can see what we’re talking about now.” - Michael Doyle & David Strauss, How to Make Meetings Work
Now that you understand the benefits of working visually, AND why these rare skills are so in demand …
… and why its TOTALLY worth investing in MEETING GRAPHICS 101 … let’s go a little deeper into the actual workshop and how it will teach you many things that you can INSTANTLY INTEGRATE into your
own professional practice …
“CHARGED AND INSPIRED - EXACTLY THE INFORMATION AND EXPERIENCE I NEEDED TO CATALYZE A MAJOR VISONIONARY SHIFT IN MY WORK!”
“Meeting other people from all over the world, with different goals yet similar positive energy & a desire to be a force for change. I am leaving this place charged and inspired to map out EVERYTHING - exactly the information and experience I needed to catalyze a major visionary shift in my work!”Beth Sarver, Artist/Educator/Community Builder,
ROYAL Project (Raising Our Youth As Leaders), Seattle, WA
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN AT
Christina Merkley’s
MEETING GRAPHICS 101 WORKSHOP:
Agenda Chart From the Workshop (large view)
The Rumors Are True:
This Workshop Is a Gateway – To Professional Work That Is Personally Fulfilling, Client Pleasing and Very, Very Effective.TRAINING OUTCOMES:
- Imagine Yourself Really Getting What This Graphics Stuff Is All About And Having Your Eyes Opened Wide To The INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITIES That Lay Before You;
- Imagine The Feel Of The Markers In Your Hand And All The Other Cool Supplies You Now Have Free License To Play With On A Regular Basis – As Part Of Your Work!
- Imagine Being So Pleasantly Surprised By What You Personally Can Do – Knowing That This Work Isn’t A Hard New Beginning, But Rather A Natural Build Upon Who You Already Are And What You’ve Already Got Going For You;
- Imagine Being Inspired And Impressed By All The Interesting People Who Surround You – And The Many Unique Ways They Apply ‘Graphics’ to Their Work And Life.
- Imagine Walking Out With A New Spring In Your Step And A Sparkle In Your Eye – Knowing You’ve Found Something That Really Suits You And The Way You Operate In The World … That You Don’t Have To Compromise Your Creative Side Any Longer – There Is A Way to Safely And Profitably Incorporate It.
Participants have experienced all that plus more …
“HER ENCOURAGEMENT GAVE ME THE CONFIDENCE TO FULLY STEP OUT AS A GRAPHIC RECORDER – NOW I HAVE SO MUCH BUSINESS I’M CRAVING TIME TO CATCH MY BREATH!”
"I’ve now taken two of Christina’s workshops and both have been excellent. She creates a lively and stimulating atmosphere, showers us with valuable resources, and is unfailingly helpful both during the workshop and in post-workshop coaching. It’s great to have a generous pro like Christina here in Canada. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to fully step out as a graphic recorder, and she’s continued to show a real interest in my progress – even made me one of her Preferred Partners! Now I have so much business I’m craving time to catch my breath! Amazing and exciting.”Avril Orloff, Graphic Recorder, Vancouver, British Columbia
“HUGELY ENJOYABLE AND IMMEDIATELY APPLICABLE!”
"As someone who got an F in Art when I was twelve years old I've always lacked confidence when it comes to the graphic finesse of my handouts and flipcharts. After the workshop I'm now much more confident and competent and have been able to apply what I learned throughout the summer. The workshop was hugely enjoyable and immediately applicable ... you can't get much better than that!"Dave Whittington, Co-Owner,
Calliope Learning / Royal Roads University, MBA Faculty
“WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO ESTABLISH STRONG RELATONSHIPS WITH COLLEAGUES FROM ACROSS THE WORLD!”
“Being the volunteer for the Life Map demo was a great experience! I loved the demos done by Christina and her encouragement as we did them on our own. Limiting the participant count allows for a comfortable setting and creates a wonderful opportunity to establish strong relationships with colleagues from across the world. Since being back I’ve been doing lots of pre-charting and practicing. My husband has threatened to tear down the walls so I can’t put up any more paper and create my trails of dust (pretty colored pastel dust)!”Jan Spaulding, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Battle Creek, MI
AGENDA SEGMENTS
… AND, here are the literal agenda topics we cover over the two days to get the results that people are raving about …
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--- conducted by phone and through email … send your charts and photos for review. |
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As you can see a lot is accomplished over the course of two-days – a terrific foundation is laid --- step by step.
Here’s what some more Meeting Graphics 101 Attendees have to say about their experiences …
“VERY SUCCESSFUL CLIENT WORK RIGHT AWAY”
“Christina's graphic facilitation work takes coaching to a new level of expression and connection with clients. I just attended Meeting Graphics 101 (after reading her article in the Coaches Training Institute newsletter) --- truly a valuable way of expressing ideas and working with clients. One of THE MOST INTERESTING courses I have EVER taken. The sky is the limit as to how I will be applying graphics to my practice. I've already had two very successful experiences with clients using what she taught me, and it's only been two weeks since the workshop!"Shannan Brown, formerly Coast Community Credit Union, HR,
Now Independent Coach & Consultant
“AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR FUTURE LEADERS!”
“One of the most important aspects of leadership is the ability to communicate. Using graphics enhances communication and therefore is an essential tool for future leaders”.Lachlan Whatley, Department Chair, Business Dept.,
University of the Fraser Valley, www.ucfv.caAnd a few more …
“GENEROUS TEACHER – SAFE AND FUN CONTAINER!”
“Christina is a supportive and generous teacher. She creates a ‘container’ that makes self-expression, self-discovery and self-exposure stimulating, safe and fun. I’m so excited to use these new skills in my work with clients!”
Andrea Williams, Life Launcher, www.fearlessfabulouslife.com, Hillsboro,
New Hampshire, U.S.A.
“VALUE ADD TO CULTURE SHIFT IN ORGANIZATIONS!”
“These skills offer me a new way to creatively bridge chaos and complexity, a value add to my skills as a consultant working with whole systems and culture-shifting in organizations!”Michael Keller, Consultant and Faculty at Royal Roads University, MA Leadership & Training Program, Victoria, B.C., Canada
“CAME HOME WITH A PRODUCT I CAN USE RIGHT AWAY – I’M REFERRING YOU TO MY COLLEAGUES!”
"Thank you so much for the most excellent training. I learned so much. The one-on-one time with you to draw on your vast experience with graphic recording and especially graphic facilitation - priceless. I learned so much AND came home with a product that I can use right way. My clients are going to be thrilled when I show them what I can do for them thanks to my training with you. Put me down for your Graphic Bootcamp in the spring and, I'm referring you to my colleagues!"Judi Adams, Adams & Adams Consulting Inc., San Diego
“AMAZING RESULTS OF THE GROUP ... CHRISTINA IS A VERY CONVINCING & PERSUASIVE PROFESSIONAL AND TRAINER”
“Rich experience, solid preparation and presentation. Seeing all the amazing results of the group. A very solid and well-balanced training experience. Christina is a VERY convincing / persuasive professional and trainer.”Susanne Hoogwater, Legal Visuals, Lawyer and Info Designer, Netherlands and Denver, CO
“EVEN THOUGH I HAVE NO DRAWING SKILLS … I SEE THE ‘LIGHT’– EVEN I CAN DO THIS!”
“The modeling, info sharing and skill-based practice worked so well. Nice meeting new people and great resources and encouragement. Even though I have no drawing skills … I see the ‘light’ – even I can do this! So with practice, just imagine!”Sharon White, Program Coordinator/Trainer,
Ministry of Children & Families, Vancouver, BC
ABOUT YOUR TRAINER: CHRISTINA MERKLEY, M.A.
Graphic Facilitator, Coach & Visual Thinking Expert
Christina Merkley, M.A. |
So who’s this impressive trainer everyone is mentioning … well, that would be me, Christina … I absolutely love teaching this workshop (does it show – hope so!). It is the culmination of over 12+ years in the Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation industry --- and a whole lot of ups and downs and lessons learned along the way. I’ve basically seen it all and … |
I’ve been training Meeting Graphics for OVER SIX YEARS now in many different configurations …
… through experience, I’ve now got it honed down to the very best way to get my knowledge out of me … and into you …
… so you have a nicer, safer, and more collaborative learning journey than the school of hard knocks I had to go through to get good at this stuff!
So here’s my story and why I invite you to come to my little school for graphic recorders and graphic facilitators here in charming, Victoria, BC…
… NOW …
… while you still can …
CHRISTINA’S GRAPHIC TALE …
Christina’s Visual Bio: (large view)
It all started many moons ago … 1994 to be exact. I was in San Francisco, getting my Masters Degree in Organizational Development & Transformation --- and I by synchronicity (or fate!) stumbled upon this fascinating way of working while still wet behind the ears in grad school …
I used graphic techniques in my thesis project after doing an internship with The Grove Consultants Int’l (pioneering group graphics consulting firm) and was amazingly lucky to get hired by Grove during the height of the crazy high tech boom in Silicon Valley.
… It took me a while to actually break into Graphic Recording (as I had to pay my dues at Grove as an assistant to the other consultants for a while) …
… but eventually my mentor, Diana Arsenian, gave me my BIG BREAK (she came to me late on a Friday afternoon in and said she’d booked me (instead of her) for a recording job with a healthcare client bright and early on Monday morning! ---so after a mad weekend of doing prep charts I dove into the deep end … and thankfully swam!)
And, haven’t looked back since. “Graphics” has become my way of life.
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For years I functioned as a Graphic Recorder based out of San Francisco and had the great fortune to work along side some of the best, most seasoned facilitators in the business …
- David Sibbet and his gang at the Grove Consultants (worked for him as an employee for almost five years) …
- Ken Weitzel and others at Hewlett Packard and Computer Services Corporation (CSC),
- The smart-as-can-be Futurists and forecasting professionals at Menlo Park’s Institute for the Future,
- Digital economy consultants Phil Hood, Alex Lowey and David Ticol at Converging Technologies, aka Digital 4Sight … under guru Don Tapscott ,
- And, once even had the distinct privilege of working along side facilitation legend Michael Doyle of Interaction Associates fame (and co-author of that yellow covered facilitation bible … How to Make Meetings Work).
... it was after working for all kinds of not-for-profit, governmental agencies and corporations all throughout North America and Europe (see client list below) – and learning from all these great group leaders …
"I've worked with Christina on over a dozen consulting and change management projects since '97. She's exceptional. Reactions to her work have ranged from happily impressed to outright awe. On a particularly high-level e-business strategy workshop for a Fortune 20 client, a member of the Dow-30, the executives' collective opinion was that her abilities 'allowed us to see things we'd been trying to comprehend for weeks.”
Ken Weitzel, Director
The Corporate Executive Board, Washington, D.C
Christina’s PARTIAL CLIENT LIST
Technology: |
Associations: |
… that I made the leap into co and lead meeting facilitation and officially became a Graphic Facilitator …
… and, went into business for myself via the creation of my first company, Make Your Mark Graphic Facilitation.
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Graphically Facilitating a |
So, given all of this, I know a thing or two about how intimidating it can be to move from being a silent scribe into actually facilitating and guiding the action …
… and about taking that leap from employment to joining the “Free Agent Nation” as an independent contractor … moving into progressively bigger and more challenging projects.
Over the years I’ve facilitated and lead all sorts of stuff, including:
- Strategic Planning and Visioning Retreats and Sessions
- Stakeholder Analysis Huddles and Competitive Analysis Stuff
- Scenario and Futures Exploration
- Succession Planning and Leadership Capacity Building Forums
- Executive and Board Retreats
- Clarity and Dialogue Circles
- Appreciative Inquiry and Positive Change Work
- Partnership & Entrepreneurial Couples Conflicts
- New Venture and Team / Company Launches
Summer Executive Retreat
Annual Marketing Summit
On and on … its been a fascinating and varied journey …
… working with lots of businesses and then also growing my own.
In addition to my Graphic Facilitation practice … I’ve slowly but surely been building up another business, called SHIFT-IT Coach Inc. – just incorporated it last year …
… deep coaching with individuals, business partners and couples ….
… all in a visual way of course and with a big emphasis on Law of Attraction (something I’ve aligned with that has HUGELY supported my own success … but I’ll have to save discussion on LOA for another time!).
However, its because of SHIFT-IT Coach, Inc (or more precisely its success) that I’m doing Meeting Graphics Trainings at all right now … but only for a limited time in the short-term future.
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You see, SHIFT-IT Coach, Inc. is really taking off … … especially with the development of The SHIFT-IT Graphic Coaching Process® and its 17 visual mapping tools … and the private coaching and tele-groups I lead with them. So much so, that very soon, my focus will exclusively be on SHIFT-IT and no longer on group facilitation or even Meeting Graphics training! |
Sooooooo, you’ll want to get in on Meeting Graphics 101 and my other workshop (The Graphic Bootcamp) while you still can –--
Your time to act is now... this will be the last time I EVER offer this extremely popular live workshop, so get in while you still can!
So, this ties into why ...
I AM KNOWN FOR MY SUPPORTIVE AND VERY, VERY GENEROUS STYLE …
Because, unlike some other graphic recorders and graphic facilitators out there who have just recently got into the training game …
… I do not hold anything back …
… because I am not in expansion or maintenance mode myself any longer with the Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation arms of my business,
… so I have no contradictory self interests in keeping the real trade secrets or any of the other really, really good stuff to myself and hidden from you.
--- in fact, I’m referring out 95% of the recording and facilitation work that crosses my desk --- to old colleagues and skilled newcomers in my Preferred Partners Network … kind of like a liquidation sale if you will. Only keeping a few old clients that I want to close gracefully out with.
“I’M WEAVING GRAPHICS INTO MY WORK AS A SPEAKER, FACILITATOR & VIDEOGRAPHER … HAVE BEGUN GRAPHIC RECORDING GIGS TOO!”
“This is one of the best courses I have ever taken! Real world applications, genuine and dynamic information and a comfortable learning environment – I recommend MEETING GRAPHICS 101 to anyone interested in making the world a better place. I signed on as a workshop assistant and mentee with Christina – and have taken all of her workshops. I’m weaving graphics into my work as a speaker, facilitator, videographer … and have begun graphic recording gigs too! The post-client engagement coaching solidifies my skills and helps me apply what I learn in my business. Amazing clarity and value. I’m totally stoked!”Erik Hanson, Speaker/Facilitator, The Kindness Crew, www.extremekindness.com
--- so if you play your cards right, and develop your skills quickly … I might even be able to refer good work your way from the many phone calls and emails I continue to receive (from around the world!) from clients looking for good recording and facilitation help!
I SERIOUSLY want to get my hard-earned knowledge out of me and into the heads and hearts of the next wave of Visual Practitioners while I still have the bandwidth for it ..
… people who will take these skills and actually DO SOMETHING with them!
… people who will carry them on in their own unique way!
.. people who are enthusiastic about Visual Thinking methods and want to incorporate these methods into their own work and life!
I know it might sound Pollyanna … but I’ve got a real knack for this stuff and I want to ‘pay it forward’--- so these visually ways of working with groups can live on through the creativity and ingenuity of others … hopefully YOU!
I apologize for the obscenely long length of this page … however I want to make sure I thoroughly cover things so you can make an informed decision about coming …
… here are just a few other things that people typically want to know – the real nitty gritty …
ANSWERS TO OTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT
ATTENDING MEETING GRAPHICS 101
Q. Do You Want A Lot Of Attendees?
A. No, I intentionally cap my trainings to just 12 participants, as well as a few assistants and invited guests in the room. This is to ensure plenty of individual attention and a nice cozy learning and sharing environment --- so you get lots of opportunities for direct interaction and feedback with me and plenty of time to share with all the other fabulous people in the room!
Plus, the first night I extend a casual, optional dinner invitation, for those who want to continue mingling – so we need to keep numbers low so we can all fit around a big round table! |
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… also, all of my workshops … starting from my first little half day workshop over 6 years ago, to the multi-day ones I currently offer … always sell out. Sometimes far in advance of the date. So given the low participant numbers be sure to register early to avoid disappointment!
SOLD OUT!
SOLD OUT! This last ever workshop has been sold out since July. Email us to be placed on waitlist, in case a spot opens up. Do you still want to get trained in graphic recording / graphic facilitation by the end of this year? If so, book Christina for a private training (1-3 people), held at her charming Victoria, B.C. studio. A few opportunities still available before Dec. 31st (at which time she is removing this training option forever ... due to the growth of her SHIFT-IT business). Get trained by one of the best trainers in the graphic recording/facilitation field while you still can - so her skills can live on thru you!
Q. Who Comes? What Are the Other Participants Like?
A. People probably a lot like you. They’ve either been intrigued by this work for years or just stumbled upon it and are totally excited by its existence. People come from lots of different kinds of professions, the obvious ones like facilitators, coaches, consultants, scribes and trainers. But also public speakers, architects, city planners, landscape designers, mediators, teachers & principals, college professors, story book animators, NLP practitioners, community activists, youth workers –even lawyers and accountants (cause they totally need to get things across to their client base in an easier way and graphics does the trick).
The really cool thing is where you and your fellow participants come from. Most are North American … from across the United States and Canada. However, Europeans are making the trek now too, with participants from Ireland, Netherlands and Great Britain. I think next round we might get a few from Australia, New Zealand and Japan by the sounds of it. Having such great geographical diversity is nice as there is no sense of competition or territorialism --- just lots of connectedness and support (members of our global graphic tribe uniting). |
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Q. Where Is The Workshop Held and How Do I Get There?
A. Part of the allure of my workshops is they are all held in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, Canada … in a great, central meeting space close to shops, restaurants, and hotels (and its got tons of wall space, which we of course need!). Victoria is a great little city and full of world class amenities due to its focus on tourism …
For a quick look at Victoria, check out these classy photos taken in May ’07 by Graphic Bootcamp attendee Alan Stephen (he was thrilled to leave chilly Calgary to experience Victoria’s mild west coast) …
… cherry blossoms everywhere … and the Chinese Benevolent
Association’s school building right next door …
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… not to mention the mother-of-all-graphics in our First Nations totem poles and long houses (middle left) at top rate B.C. Royal Museum. And … our picturesque Parliament Buildings (middle right) lit up at night with thousands of tiny, yellow, light bulbs …
… immediately upon registration you’ll receive the logistics for our meeting location – including travel options, driving directions (ferry is one way to get here, the other is air) and recommended accommodations (whatever your tastes, preferences and budget)
… and a ‘Things To Do’ Tip Sheet (in case you want to add a few additional days before or after to experience Victoria in even more depth).
In the meantime, here’s Info on Travel to Victoria, B.C.
For a wealth of additional info visit Tourism Victoria’s website.
Q. When Is The Next Workshop? And If I Can’t Make That, When Is the Next One After That?
Nov. 5-6, 2008 - LAST EVER
A. Your time to act is now... this will be the last time I EVER offer this extremely popular live workshop, so get in while you still can!
SOLD OUT!
SOLD OUT! This last ever workshop has been sold out since July. Email us to be placed on waitlist, in case a spot opens up. Do you still want to get trained in graphic recording / graphic facilitation by the end of this year? If so, book Christina for a private training (1-3 people), held at her charming Victoria, B.C. studio. A few opportunities still available before Dec. 31st (at which time she is removing this training option forever ... due to the growth of her SHIFT-IT business). Get trained by one of the best trainers in the graphic recording/facilitation field while you still can - so her skills can live on thru you!
Q: What If None of the Public Workshop Dates Work For My Schedule
A. You can arrange your own private training with me. I offer one to three day formats (for 1-3 people). Agendas custom designed to meet your own unique needs and skill level. Trainings held in my charming Victoria, British Columbia studio. We just find a time that works for both our calendars. Or, bring me to you for an in-house workshop at your location (for 6-12 people).
Q. What If I Already Have Some Base Skills and Have Been Doing Graphic Recording or Graphic Facilitation For a While?
A. Most folks who already have some basic training still get a lot out of this workshop. But, you can always email me examples of your work and if I think they are advanced enough – I’ll bump you up to Level 2: THE GRAPHICS BOOTCAMP (however lots of stuff in the Bootcamp is built on the foundation laid from MG 101 so most folks opt to do it anyways, then proceed on to The Graphic Bootcamp as they are run back-to-back).
Q. Just What Exactly Is The Graphic Bootcamp? How Is It Different From Meeting Graphics 101?
A. The GRAPHIC BOOTCAMP is my advanced Level 2 training. It organically grew out of my student’s desires for more practice – in a safe and supportive learning lab. With the foundation set in Meeting Graphics 101, you take a quantum leap in skill and confidence through The Bootcamp. Its chock full of drills, exercises and plenty of team and client simulations. |
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Plus we cover business development and sales/marketing strategies: how to get your foot in the door, how to sell, negotiate and what fees to charge, and expansion and partnering guidance, etc. These topics apply to whether you an internal or external practitioner (cause no matter what, you’ve got to know how to explain, negotiate and sell this way of working!).
And, as an ADDED BONUS, you experience the power of Graphic Coaching and SHIFT-IT work: via a draft, version 1.0 of your own Personal Vision and Action Plan --- and with a positive mindset calibrated via powerful Law of Attraction techniques (stuff my coaching clients pay a pretty penny for).
Click Here for More Info on The Graphic Bootcamp
When? As most attendees travel from far distances, The Graphic Bootcamp is offered immediately after Meeting Graphics 101 – so you can get THE most graphics training possible from just one trip.
Please Note: Most attendees from Meeting Graphics 101 continue immediately to Level 2 … you can of course choose to take time in-between trainings and return for your Bootcamp at a later date (however you run the risk of it no longer being available if you wait too long!).
Nov. 5-6, 2008 - LAST EVER
SOLD OUT!
SOLD OUT! This last ever workshop has been sold out since July. Email us to be placed on waitlist, in case a spot opens up. Do you still want to get trained in graphic recording / graphic facilitation by the end of this year? If so, book Christina for a private training (1-3 people), held at her charming Victoria, B.C. studio. A few opportunities still available before Dec. 31st (at which time she is removing this training option forever ... due to the growth of her SHIFT-IT business). Get trained by one of the best trainers in the graphic recording/facilitation field while you still can - so her skills can live on thru you!
Q. What If I Find Its Just Too Challenging Or Overwhelming? I’m A Bit Scared … Do You Offer A Guarantee?
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A. I’m glad you asked. First off, let me reassure you that it is perfectly normal to be a bit apprehensive when you sign up – everyone is! After all, its not everyday that you choose to, in public no less, stand up at a wall and doodle and draw Can I do it? Will I like it? What if I suck? - are perfectly natural questions to ask yourself. I assure you that even art traumatized |
people who have had nasty experiences back in grade school or some such do make it through this workshop very well (look at all the testimonials from folks who say they couldn’t draw a straight line coming in!)
Rest assured, its really not about art anyways – its about information! If the drawing isn’t your strongest point, you’ll have other strengths you can capitalize on like good listening, synthesizing and tracking of information. The first day can be a little hard on some folks who have a loud inner critic or perfectionism – but by the second day that fades away and you’ll relax --- I really am a good, kind, gentle teacher (who also knows when to push J) … so don’t worry, you are in good hands!
As for the GUARANTEE … yes, I offer a huge one …
…. if you aren’t 100% Fully Satisfied, I’ll return the
FULL COST OF THE WORKSHOP, PLUS $500 to compensation you for your valuable time.Why, because I’m fully confident that not only are you going to be able to get through this workshop, you are going to have a transformative and lovely experience in the process!
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Go ahead, register and attend my ENTIRE Meeting Graphics 101 Workshop at NO RISK whatsoever. If for any reason, by the end of the 2nd day, you honestly feel you did not enjoy the experience or feel I did not deliver on the information promised, just turn in your materials, and get a full 100% refund. You see, I'm THAT confident that nothing out there comes CLOSE to the quality of my Meeting Graphics 101 Workshop and the amazing, step-by-step process you're going to go through. In fact, if you do feel I've wasted your time, I'll even give you $500.00 out of my own pocket for your trouble, paid by check within 30 days after the event. (Yes, really!) This "make you happy" guarantee is my way of taking ANY worry off your shoulders about this important decision. |
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And, that’s my promise to you! (For the record, nobody has EVER taken me up on this guarantee, but I continue to it nonetheless so you understand my complete confidence in what I offer!).
Q. SO, WHAT’S INCLUDED?
A. For your workshop fee, you receive:
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- Two days of jam packed training (9-5 schedule), with coffee/tea in mornings;
- An impressive 200 page manual crammed with examples, charts, descriptions, articles, resource, etc. (everything you might need to refer back to);
- A 40 page color e-Booklet sent post-workshop by email (so you have full color versions of all of the charts in this new handbook);
- A set of color markers (this time the primo, deluxe type), use of all recording materials (miles of paper, tape, cutters, pastels, stencils, etc.), plus more fun takeaway gifts;
- Plus a private, 45-minute tele-coaching session scheduled post-workshop for one-to-one mentoring (specific, tailored guidance on whatever you want to most focus on: agenda design, chart feedback, business coaching, etc).
Q. SO WHAT’S THE COST OF ATTENDING?
A. When you take valuable skills training, like any opportunity you are considering, don’t look at what it costs … look at what it’s WORTH to you.
The going day rate for Graphic Recorders and Graphic Facilitators is $500 on the low end and $2-3000+ on the mid-range (some high end consultants using visual methods charge upwards of $5000+/day!). FYI, the cost for you to attend Meeting Graphics 101 and The Graphic Bootcamp (four full days) is less than what I charge for one day of my recording or facilitation services. (see Christina’s fees).
Obviously, once you get your skills up, your investment in yourself can be recouped quickly, for some, in just a few days (even calculating in lower fees). Or, if you’re internal, in the satisfaction of doing work in a whole new way that pleases you and your employer - and the savings of not having to use an external contractor or at least working more effectively with the ones you do still choose to bring in.
These workshops are an incredibly good deal given how you are being ‘taught to fish’ – a skill that can keep you feed, happy and personally satisfied for years to come (let alone all the great productivity and meeting results that will ripple and flow from you).
Your Investment Is:
MEETING GRAPHICS 101: $995.00
THE GRAPHIC BOOTCAMP: $1195.00
TAKEN TOGETHER: $1895.00 (save just shy of $300).
*** Fees in Canadian Funds, GST additional
Q: Do I Have to Take These Two Courses Back to Back?
A. No. You could opt to take Meeting Graphics 101 first, then follow it up with The Graphics Bootcamp at another date. I purposely offer these workshops back to back because most people who attend often travel significant distances to come (and would prefer to get as much training as they can in one trip). If you happen to live in the area, or are ok with doing two trips, you can certainly split your workshop dates. However, you do run the risk of me no longer having The Graphics Bootcamp as an option, if you wait too long. As i am not sure how much longer I will be offering it. And, because of this, I unfortunately cannot extend the special dual rate to you if you do not opt to take them back-to-back.
Q: This Is My Own Investment – Is There a Way I Can Make Partial Payments to Ease My Cashflow Crunch?
A. Yes. I have invested extensively in my own training over the years and I certainly have compassion for the cashflow issues of solo-entrepreneurs and small business owners. So, to help make your training investment as easy as possible, I am offering several payment plans options. I’ll even let you continue/finish your payments beyond the actual workshop dates (trusting you to fulfill your commitment).
Several Easy Payment Plan Options Available:
Your choice of one full payment or divide your payment into 3, 5 or even 7 convenient micro-payments (first payment upon registration, then every 30 days for remainder of plan).FYI: Payment plan options available on purchase of single workshop or on purchase of both workshops back-to-back. Click Here for Information on Payment Plan Options
Phew! There You Have It … This Course Is Loaded To The Gills WITH VALUE!!!
In fact, I’ll be blunt with you. There is not another Graphic Recording and Graphic Facilitation training that can touch the step-by-step, easy-to-follow instruction you get from “MEETING GRAPHICS 101 and THE GRAPHIC BOOTCAMP.” I’m not saying you couldn’t learn about graphic recording or graphic facilitation elsewhere, but these courses have been carefully structured to get you the fastest results possible while at the same time teaching you a REPEATABLE, systemized skill guaranteed to add more joy to your working life (and make you more money!) I look forward to supporting you in your graphic success!
Doodlers Unite!
Warmly, Make Your Mark Graphic Facilitation |
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P.S. Further Questions? Hopefully I have answered all questions you might have, but if not, feel free to email me … workshops@shift-it-coach.com … happy to set up a time to talk.
P.P.S. These workshops fill up fast! If you are serious about developing work that you really, really like, then CLICK HERE!
MORE SATISFIED STUDENTS RAVE!
“Interactive, practical, starts up slowly so you build your confidence – fun! Best workshop I’ve been to in a long time and very applicable to the work I do.”
Anne Fraser, Change Management Coordinator, Calgary Health Region
“Invaluable training – even more than I expected! I was amazed that I was actually able to draw icons and do lettering. Not at all intimidating and great opportunity to enhance companies assets (employees) for engaging meetings.“
Rebecca Alexander, Senior Researcher, Thought Leadership Team, Microsoft, Seattle, WA
"I loved this workshop! I don't have a single artistic bone in my body and was still stunned at what I could do by the end of the day. Christina's teaching style is approachable and supportive. The fact that most of the workshop was hands-on really helped to boost my confidence".
Jill Reid, District Staff Development Team, Coquitlam School District
“This was the best organized workshop I’ve EVER taken - helpful, thorough, and met expectations. Also, I liked the small size of the group and the quiet room. Very informative on skills; nothing withheld. Also liked the location in the city”.
Cynthia Stewart, Olympia, WA, Facilitator/Mediator
"Graphic Facilitation makes facilitation a lot more interesting for both facilitator and audience. This workshop was excellent. The process allowed hands on practice and feedback. Easy to learn. I highly recommend it to others".
Rosanna von Sacken, Advanced Consulting Inc.
“This was an exhilarating, full filled introduction to the world of graphic facilitation. Christina’s style put me at ease and set the stage for me to step outside of my comfort zone”.
Melissa McLean, Senior VP, Marketing & Communications, Tourism Victoria
“The emotional connection with the material really worked well – my own involvement and those around me being so engaged and heart felt. A good mix attuned to the range of individuals in the class”.
Ken Enright, Consultant, Bainbridge Island, WA
“Excellent! Great instruction and coaching – lots of time to practice – many methods. Excellent handouts and examples”.
Cassandra O’Neill, Sustainability Consultant, Tucson, Arizona
“Well-paced, very well taught, great time management and just the right blend of learning then practice. Very supportive and wonderful course – I learned a ton! Excellent supporting materials and takeaway materials”.
Suzanne Enright, Leadership/Intercultural Consultant
“Great explanations, respectful, appreciative approach – Christina is so passionate about her work and is generous in sharing this with the learners”.
Alison Meredith, Private Practice Coach and Faculty at Royal Roads University / Schools of Leadership Studies
“Christina you hit the mark! Big impact. No more single page flip charts!”
Ryan Girard, Business Process Consultant, Victoria, BC
“Everything worked well – gentle introduction and lots of resources. I have no artistic skills yet soon found myself doing graphics! It was SO fun!”
Kim Kelso, Project Manager/Facilitator, Ministry of Children and Family, Vancouver, BC
“Great workshop from start to finish – can’t believe how much we covered! Great facilitation: well paced, clear, calm and enjoyable. Thanks so much”.
Paula Beltgens, Participatory Research Facilitator, Vancouver, BC
“Christina is a master of her craft and shares generously. Tons of quick tips and a great foundational AND inspirational course”.
Darcy Riddell, Hollyhock Leadership Center, Vancouver, BC
“Graphic facilitation and coaching is the key I’ve been looking for to help make my workshops and coaching/counseling have more impact on people – most people I work with are visual learners, so I’m excited to include this new tool in my toolbox”.
Linda Coltura, Coach, Vancouver BC
I look forward to you joining us!
© SHIFT-IT Coach, Inc.