Call for Connection Circle Facilitators
Overview of the Experience
At the HBA Annual Conference 2026, Connection Circles are designed to turn moments into meaning and conversations into momentum.
Across the conference, attendees are engaging with big, career-defining questions about leadership, impact, and what comes next. Connection Circles create a dedicated space for participants to process those ideas through reflection, dialogue, and shared experience.
In 2026, the format is intentionally simple, flexible, and focused on impact:
- No pre-assigned groups — attendees join onsite
- Two touchpoints — Day 1 (connection) and Day 3 (activation)
- Facilitated conversations — guided by prompts, not presentations
What Connection Circle Facilitators Will Lead
Day 1: Guided Conversation
Facilitators will guide small-group conversations using structured prompts designed to help participants:
- Connect with others in a meaningful way early in the experience
- Reflect on the conference guiding question:
Who do I need to become to lead what’s coming? - Explore perspectives across roles and experiences
- Set a personal intention for how they will engage in the conference
All groups will engage with a shared set of thoughtfully designed prompts.
Day 3: Participant-Driven Conversations
On the final day, the experience shifts from reflection to action.
Participants will choose a table based on a topic or outcome they want to pursue. Each participant may join two conversations, each lasting 20 minutes.
Facilitators will guide conversations that help attendees:
- Translate insights into clear next steps
- Engage in focused peer dialogue
- Identify one action, commitment, or experiment to carry forward
How It Works
- Attendees will not sign up in advance for Connection Circles
- Participants will join onsite by joining a group (Day 1) or selecting a table (Day 3)
- Facilitators will guide conversation using prompts provided in advance
- No pre-conference outreach to participants is required
Who We’re Looking For
Ideal facilitators:
- Are comfortable guiding group conversation in a professional setting
- Create engaging dialogue across a range of perspectives
- Listen actively and help participants connect ideas and experiences
- Are energized by helping others reflect and take action
- Will attend and engage in the full conference experience
You do not need formal facilitation credentials—strong presence and the ability to guide meaningful conversation are what matter most.
Facilitator Commitment
Selected facilitators will:
- Participate in a virtual facilitator orientation prior to the conference
- Arrive prepared to guide conversations using provided prompts
- Lead one Connection Circle on Day 1 and one topic-based session on Day 3
Conference Dates:
Monday, 16 November – Wednesday, 18 November
Facilitator Orientation Date:
Facilitators will be asked to participate in a virtual orientation. The date and time will be confirmed shortly after coach selections are finalized. The session will be recorded and shared with those who are unable to attend live.
What You Receive
Facilitators will receive:
- 15% off the Annual Conference Pass (Discount is off the conference-only price, which does not include a signature experience.)
- Recognition as a facilitator within the conference experience
- Opportunity to connect with a global network of leaders
- A meaningful role in shaping how attendees experience the conference
How to Apply
To be considered, please submit your information here:
Click Here.
Applications are due by: 26 June 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Facilitators will be provided with prompts and guidance. Your role is to guide conversation, not present content.
No. There will be no pre-assigned groups this year. Attendees will join Connection Circles onsite. This approach differs from previous years and is intended to reduce the coordination challenges associated with no-shows and last-minute schedule changes.
- Day 1: All groups engage in the same guided discussion using shared prompts tied to the question of the day.
- Day 3: Participants choose a conversation based on a topic or outcome they want to pursue (topic-based), with two 20-minute sessions available.
We aim for 10–20 participants per group, depending on space and attendance.
No. There is no pre-conference outreach required.
Yes. There will be a virtual orientation session prior to the conference on Thursday, 22 October from 12PM to 12:45 PM ET. We will send the recording for those who are not able to attend the call.
No. All selected facilitators will receive 15% off the conference-only pass. (Discount which does not include signature experiences.)
No. Facilitators are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses.
Yes. Your facilitation responsibilities are limited, allowing you to fully engage in the broader conference experience.
Kayla Brennan at kbrennan@hbanet.org