Having worked in training and education for many years I know how frustrating it is to get a group that is less than enthusiastic to become involved and active. One ingredient I’ve used to turning such groups around and making them active and vibrant is the idea of critical mass.

Wikipedia defines the original scientific use of the term as “critical mass is the smallest amount of fissile material needed for a sustained nuclear chain reaction.” In other words, the smallest amount of material needed to create a chain reaction of sustained power. In people terms, that means to me… How many and who of this group do I need to get on board to create a significant level of contagious dynamism?

The answer is, in most cases,  just a select few of the group but it’s a process that often needs to be managed, for best effect and sustainability, as well as just being fascinating to watch. Consider this video (it’s shaky but it’s the most succinct I could find):

There are additional videos on Youtube from other attendees at the concert teasing and laughing at this guy. Joking how he they are going to put the video on Youtube long before the events that follow occured.

Some things that I’ve noticed in facilitating groups to critical mass that are also present in this video, and that you might like to look out for in your training/groupwork, include:

• The first person on board doesn’t need to be the coolest. The most influential or strong leader types are great if you can get them but they can sometimes also be the hardest to persuade.
• The next couple of people who start dancing aren’t even taking it seriously. In fact, they are probably even teasing the original dancer. Sometimes momentum isn’t always originally built on true enthusiasm.
• While it only takes 1 as a catalyst; critical mass in my groups (allowing for personality and culture differences) tends to take place when I reach 4 active participants.
• Admittedly in the video the first few join as a joke for some but as it continues it becomes the thing to do to join the fun. Building momentum actually works better when you cultivate fun and enjoyment than battle to build it.
• The rate of growth correlates to the number already participating.

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How to Instantly Connect with Anyone – An interview with Leil Lowndes. As an introvert her book “How to talk to anyone” was really helpful when meeting new people.

Four Essential Members of a Design Team – While focused on a Design Team the idea could be adapted as another tool in reviewing your work team and their duties/roles.

Photo by Grzegorz Lobinski