01
The Book
A practical, human-centered guide for facilitators navigating a profession reshaped by AI.
A forthcoming book by Donna Steffey
Presence Over Prompting
10 facilitator behaviors for the AI era, and a compelling case for why the human side of learning matters more than ever.
“If AI can create the content, what is the facilitator’s role now?”
The question at the heart of the book
The central idea
Content is changing.Connection is not.
Artificial intelligence can create activities, questions, and learning materials in seconds.
But meaningful learning still depends on a facilitator who can sense the room, earn trust, ask the right question, and create the conditions for people to engage honestly. Presence Over Prompting explores the human behaviors that make that possible.
10human behaviors
1essential question
∞ways to connect
The heart of the book
Ten ways to bring more humanity into the room.
Not techniques to perform, but behaviors to practice, especially when the room asks more of us.
- 01
Be Fully Present
Offer attention that people can feel.
- 02
Model Courage
Step into the moments that matter.
- 03
Earn Trust Consistently
Build credibility through every choice.
- 04
Create Psychological Safety
Make room for honest participation.
- 05
Navigate Conflict Constructively
Turn tension into forward movement.
- 06
Savor the Feast
Notice and honor what unfolds.
- 07
Ask Questions That Deepen Learning
Invite reflection beyond easy answers.
- 08
Cultivate Community Intentionally
Help people learn with one another.
- 09
Read the Room and Adapt
Respond to what the group needs now.
- 10
Build Bridges Across Cultures
Connect across difference with care.
Ways to engage
Bring the ideas to your people.
From the page to the stage to the workshop room, each experience is designed to turn insight into more human learning.
Ask about the book
02
Keynotes & Conferences
Engaging presentations on the changing facilitator role—and why presence matters more than ever.
03
Facilitation Workshops
Interactive experiences that strengthen the human skills behind meaningful learning and connection.
04
Organizational Programs
Future opportunities for learning teams, ATD chapters, and conferences to bring the ideas to groups.
Meet the author
Donna Steffey, MBA, CPTD
An internationally recognized facilitator, author, and leadership development consultant with decades of experience helping people learn, lead, and work more effectively together.
Donna has facilitated learning experiences across industries and cultures. Her work spans facilitation, leadership development, emotional intelligence, and instructional design.
She is also the author of Destination Facilitation: A Travel Guide to Training Around the World, published by ATD Press.
“The human side of facilitation matters more than ever.”Connect with Donna
Start a conversation
Ready to bring more presence into the room?
Ask about the forthcoming book, invite Donna to speak, or explore a workshop for your organization.
Email Donna