Conducting Effective Meetings – 1 Day Course

Who should attend?

• Anyone who wants to run or contribute to more effective meetings

Course Description

This seminar provides an overview of what makes meetings effective. It will review the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved and how each person can contribute to the success of a meeting. The seminar includes planning and preparing for a meeting, managing group dynamics and various methods to reach a decision. Participants will learn the basics of formal meeting procedures and effective minute taking. Participants will practice techniques in role plays, a mock meeting, case studies and small group activities.

Course Content

Introduction
Secrets of Successful Meetings
Why Meetings Go Wrong
To Meet or Not to Meet?
Alternative s to Meetings
Putting a Price on Meeting Productivity
Meeting Cost Calculator

Roles and Responsibilities
Functions of Groups
Chairman and Participants
Recorder or Minute-Taker

Planning and Preparation
Types of Meetings
How Many Invitees
When and Where to Meet
Meeting Planning Checklist

The Agenda
Purpose of an Agenda
An Informal Agenda
What to Include
SMART Goals

Managing Meetings
Active Listening
Asking Questions Like a Pro
Keeping the Meeting Focused
Ground Rules
Common Problems
Long-Windedness
Involving the Silent
Managing Disputes
Giving Participants Feedback on their Behaviour

Group Discussions
Getting Feedback from the Group
Brainstorming

Decision Making in Groups
Consensus
Problem-solving Techniques

Formal Meetings
What is Parliamentary Procedure?
Rules for Meetings, “Robert’s Rules of Order”
Motions, Debate, Voting

Minute-Taking (optional)
Purpose of Minutes
Tips for Effective Minute Taking
What to Include
Action Minutes
Sample Forms, Sample Minutes
Recording the Minutes of a Videotaped Meeting

After the Meeting
Monitoring Progress