“The Elephant on the Wall – and in the Room”
I came across this beautiful wall art – a majestic elephant, crafted from corks, surrounded by rich green foliage.
At first, I admired the creativity.
Then I smiled.
Because sometimes, the elephant is not in the room.
It’s on the wall. In plain sight.
Framed. Aesthetic. Safe.
It reminded me of what often happens in corporate meeting rooms.
Everyone knows there’s an issue.
But no one brings it up.
As facilitators, how do we help leadership teams talk about the elephant – not the decorative one, but the disruptive one?
Here are 5 things facilitators can do to surface what’s unsaid :
- Set the room, not just the agenda :
Psychological safety doesn’t come from slides – it comes from energy.
Before they speak truth, they must feel safe. Before they lean in, they must trust the space.
- Name the silence:
The room goes quiet. People glance, then look away.
Call it. Gently. “What are we not saying?” is a powerful invitation. - Use metaphor to make meaning :
Sometimes, naming the elephant directly can trigger defence.
Use stories, symbols, or case examples as mirrors. Reflection often precedes revelation. - Honour the cost of honesty :
Truth isn’t easy in hierarchy-heavy spaces.
Facilitators must acknowledge the courage it takes – and protect those who speak up.
- Let the elephant be heard, not herded :
Don’t rush to fix or reframe. Let it breathe. Let it be heard.
Clarity begins where denial ends.
That elephant on the wall reminded me:
The most important conversations are the ones we resist the most.
What helps you create the kind of space where silence gives way to truth?