- Show up at the meeting at few minutes early so you can read all the meeting materials that you should have
already read. - At the appointed time, say in a loud voice something like, “OK, it’s noon. Let’s get started.” Pause for two seconds.
Some people will still be yacking after that, so in a loud voice say, “The first item on the agenda is X. Are there any
comments?” - After each person makes a comment, say something positive such as, “That’s a good point, Bob” or “Nice insight,
Marcy.” Do this even if the comment was the most stupid thing you have ever heard. - When all the comments are done or the comments begin to get redundant, say, “Is there a motion?” (Someone will
make a motion). - Say, “Is there a second?” (6-8 people will second the motion so they can feel like they contributed to the meeting
and see their name in the minutes at the next meeting). - Say, “All in favor?” (Everyone will raise their hand or say ‘Aye.’)
- Say, “All opposed?” (Nobody will oppose it).
- Repeat this process for each agenda item.
- Before you announce the last agenda item, start gathering all your stuff, put away your laptop, etc., to signal all that
you are going to end the meeting soon. - When the last agenda item has been concluded, say, “Is there a motion to adjourn?” Nearly everyone in the room
will say, “So moved.” - There is no need to ask for a second since anyone who did not say, “So moved” will immediately say, “second.”
- Say, “Thank you all for coming and for all your hard work. I’ll see you all again on (insert date of next meeting). That’s all there is to it. Is there a third grader in Colorado that could not do this?
Your use of this site is subject to these Terms of Use. Do not use this site if you do not agree to these Terms of Use.
