Meetings - Host's Duties

When conducting a meeting, it is important for the host to get the time, place and agenda set. This means that you ensure the timing works for all necessary attendees and you have prepared an adequate space and time for the meeting. Further, it is important for the host to explain the purpose of the meeting. Do not just call a meeting without giving details of what will be expected of attendees (in terms of contribution or preparation). Further, have an agenda for your meeting that you will follow and, if possible, give to everyone ahead of time. Keep the meetings start and ending time (i.e. don't let your meeting drag on - folks are busy and need to get to other tasks). Further, keep the meeting agenda items - only discuss what you came there to discuss. Otherwise, people will not be as prepared and this can cause meetings to overrun their allotted time. Finally, the host should have someone keep a detailed record of meeting and task lists for items after the meeting. That way all will know what is to be accomplished after they leave the meeting. These few points will help make for effective and efficient meetings - so you you and those you work with can get back to the actual doing! Wishing you all brief but productive meetings! Marty Thompson PS Check out my favorite picture at www.despair.com (these guys are genius) that sums up most meetings - may this never happen to you! http://demotivators.despair.com/demotivational/meetingsdemotivator.jpg