The following are some
tips to help you make your meeting successful, productive and
even fun.
Before The Meeting
- Define the purpose of the meeting.
- Develop an agenda in cooperation with key participants.
(Chairman, secretary, treasurer)
- Distribute the agenda and other material, prior to the
meeting so members will be prepared and feel involved and
up-to-date.
- Choose an appropriate meeting time. Set a time limit and stick
to it, if possible.
- If possible, arrange the room so that members face each other,
i.e., a circle or semi-circle. For large groups, try U-shaped rows.
- Choose a location suitable to your group's size. Small rooms
with too many people get stuffy and create tension. A larger room is
more comfortable and encourages individual expression.
- Use visual aids for interest (e.g., posters, diagrams, etc.).
Post a large agenda up front to which members can refer.
- Vary meeting places if possible to accommodate different
members. Be sure everyone knows where and when the next meeting will
be held.
During The Meeting
- If possible, serve light refreshments; they are good
icebreakers and make your members feel special and comfortable.
- Start on time. End on time.
- Review the agenda and set priorities for the meeting.
- Stick to the agenda
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