You know that participants are mandated to attend the workshop and are not motivated.

• Get their input on the agenda and the objectives for the workshop.
• For the icebreaker, choose an activity that demonstrates the value of the topic.
• As a group, set some ground rules.

You notice that participants seem restless and/or bored.

• Take a break.
• Engage the group in an activity or energizer.
• Do a quick evaluation to see how people are feeling about the content and methods. 

 The topics to be covered are challenging, controversial, or dry.

• Plan for lots of activities.
• Schedule extra breaks.
• Include humor if appropriate.
• Set the group’s expectation: “I know this topic does not seem to be that particularly interesting or exciting, but we are going to make it interesting AND exciting!” (Make sure you follow up on your word!)

You know that this particular group does not work well together.

• Incorporate conflict resolution and team building exercises and/or information into the workshop, if possible.
• Choose non-conflict activities.