Fostering Good Relationships
Just as important as leading a productive discussion is fostering good relationships with your peers. Here are a few basic tips to do this!
Respect
Respect is the most important thing for a good relationship in a forum. Respect everyone's ideas. Also, respect everyone's airtime, and give everyone a chance to speak. If you disagree, be sure to do so respectfully, unless the idea is problematic, in which you should correct the person gently but firmly.
Deal with problems in the moment
If there is a problem, be sure to deal with it in a way that is constructive at the time of the problem. When problems are left to sit, that is when tension begins to happen and the discussion can be undermined. Don't be afraid to ask for help in dealing with problems!
Be friendly and kind
Make sure to be friendly and kind to everyone in addition to treating them with respect. You don't have to be friends with everyone, but you do have to be friendly because as a facilitator it is your job to make sure a good feeling is kept throughout the discussion. If someone has done something wrong to you, address it with that person individually and outside the forum to quell any tension.