When we run a workshop, what are we really trying to achieve? Sure, we might want to pass on information, “raise awareness” or introduce a new tool. But if we zoom out a little, the real goal is simple: we want people to do things differently afterwards. Whether it’s adopting a new process, shifting their mindset or improving a skill, we’re in the business of behaviour change.

Looking at workshop facilitation through a behavioural science lens can make a real difference.

Here are a few techniques that can help you design and deliver workshops that stick, while keeping things dynamic, responsive, and fun.

1. Know your audience (and keep getting to know them).

Before we even get to the slides or sticky notes, it’s worth taking ample time to think about who will be in the room. Behavioural science tells us that people are not passive recipients of information. They’re active interpreters, bringing their own mental models, motivations and barriers.

The more you understand about your group (their goals, pressures, experience levels) the better you can tailor the session. That might mean switching up the examples you use, skipping parts of the content they already know, or building in space to explore their challenges in more depth.

And importantly, that understanding shouldn’t stop when the workshop starts. Keep listening, checking in, observing energy levels. If people are glazing over, that’s all data you can use to respond in the moment.

2. Chunk the content, vary the pace.

Ever tried to absorb a firehose of information in a two-hour stretch? Our brains just aren’t built for that. Research on chunking (Gobet et al, 2001) shows that breaking information into bite-sized pieces helps with processing and recall. It’s about building clear, manageable sections with a rhythm that flows.

But beyond chunking, consider how you’re mixing things up. Vary the pace and energy throughout the session: blend quiet reflection with interactive activities, mix solo time with small group discussion. Use different formats (cases to solve, role plays) to keep people on their toes. Think of yourself as a DJ, adjusting the tempo to match the room.

And don’t be afraid to inject some fun! Playfulness is fuel for engagement, creativity, and memory. A quick game can do wonders.

3. Make space for meaning-making.

It’s tempting to focus on getting through the content. But one of the most powerful things you can do is step back and let people make sense of what they’re hearing.

This is the idea behind elaboration (Petty et al, 2009). When people generate their own connections (linking new ideas to past experiences or building metaphors) they’re much more likely to remember and apply them.

In practice, this means asking more questions than you answer. Invite stories, reflections, and discussion. Use real-life scenarios and let participants work through them in small groups.

4. Plan for what comes next.

Even the best workshop won’t drive change if it ends at the door. People need accountability and follow-up to turn good intentions into action.

This is where public commitment (Ajzen et al, 2009) can be a game-changer. Invite participants to set a specific goal and share it with the group, or even have them commit to themselves about what they are going to do with what they learnt.

5. Have tools in your back pocket.

Even with the best design, workshops don’t always go to plan, and that’s OK. What matters is your ability to adapt.

This is where your facilitator “toolbox” comes in. Have a few different energisers ready in case the room goes flat. Have some extra activities ready to dig deeper into an unexpected topic or to take a step back. If a planned activity isn’t landing, be ready to pivot or skip it entirely.

Think of your design as a flexible frame, not a script. The real magic happens when you respond to the room in real time.

6. Think of yourself as designing an experience.

Facilitating workshops through a behavioural science lens is about meeting people where they are, designing with the brain in mind, and creating experiences that connect, stretch and inspire.

So next time you’re planning a session, think beyond the content. Ask yourself: what would make this meaningful, memorable, and doable? Then bring your best self, your flexible mindset, and a few extra tricks up your sleeve.