How to start a meeting

Starting and running a productive meeting takes a little bit of planning. Learn how to start a meeting with these tips.

Instructions

1. Conducting a good meeting takes time and preparation. Too often we attend meetings where we have no clear idea of the topics that are supposed to be discussed. It ends up being obvious that the person that organized the meeting made the mistake of neglecting to plan ahead.

2. Put your ideas in writing.

   Think about the goal of the meeting. Brainstorm about topics such as what needs to be communicated and what tools you may need. Think about what other attendees will talk about. Plan the agenda. Make sure you will have any tools needed for the meeting such as computers, paper or a whiteboard.

3. Create an agenda to give to attendees

   If you actually make an agenda to share with everyone, they will know what to expect from the meeting. List your main goal in bold letters at the top of the agenda. The agenda should include points that will help the meeting flow.

4. Introduce the agenda at the start of the meeting

   Briefly walk through the agenda. Just highlight the main topics. Leave room for discussion later when it is appropriate. Your goal is to be sure that when the meeting is over, everyone leaves with a sense of accomplishment.

5. Hopefully your meeting will run smoothly.