Planning · intermediate · 25 min
Request Formulation
Formulate clear and actionable requests to increase the likelihood of needs being met. This method helps participants move from vague desires to specific, positive, and feasible requests.
What participants gain
- Define the elements of an effective request.
- Formulate requests that are specific and positive.
- Distinguish between requests and demands.
Materials needed
- Examples of effective and ineffective requests.
- Pens or markers.
- Paper or notebooks.
- Whiteboard or flip chart.
- Timer.
How to run Request Formulation, step by step
- Introduce the concept of request formulation in NVC.
- Provide examples of effective and ineffective requests.
- Ask participants to individually formulate requests based on a given scenario.
- In pairs, participants share their requests and provide feedback.
- Facilitate a group discussion on the elements of an effective request.
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to be specific and positive in their requests.
- Emphasize the importance of making requests feasible.
- Provide examples of effective and ineffective requests.
Common challenges
- Making vague requests - Provide guidance on being specific and concrete.
- Formulating negative requests - Encourage participants to focus on what they want, not what they don't want.
- Making unrealistic requests - Help participants create feasible requests.
Running it virtually
Use a shared online document for participants to formulate requests. Facilitate a virtual discussion to refine and improve the requests.
Expected results
Participants will be able to formulate clear, actionable, and positive requests that increase the likelihood of their needs being met.
Build a session around Request Formulation
METODIC drops Request Formulation into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.