Planning a Meeting

Be clear about why you need to meet and what you want to accomplish. Present minutes from the last meeting. List actions you need to take; decide upon next reunion date; acknowledge accomplishments and changes.

Meetings can be focused when you follow these four steps.

DEFINE WHAT YOU WANT MEMBERS TO CONTRIBUTE.

Encourage active involvement.

ASK FOR ENGAGEMENT.

Give members advance notice about the meeting. Get specific and provide examples.

MAKE SPACE FOR MEMBERS TO ENGAGE.

If many people are involved, make the meeting longer so everyone has a chance to speak.

ACKNOWLEDGE CONTRIBUTIONS.

Reserve time for sharing appreciations and thanking participants publicly for specific contributions.