How to Make a Motion in a Meeting

Having order in your meetings is essential. To do so, you need to follow what is called parliamentary procedures or Roberts Rules of Order.

Things You'll Need

• Guide to Roberts Rule of Order

Instructions

1. "Gain the floor" by raising your hand to be recognized by the presiding officer of the meeting. In some case, there may be another accepted method of acquiring the floor or getting the chairs attention.

2. After acquiring the floor, state your motion by starting off with the following phrase, "Chair, I Move...." (ex. I move that we accept the report of the membership committee.) Remember to always address the chair of the meeting.

3. Always state your motion in the affirmative. A motion to NOT do something will be ruled out of order. (ex. I move that we do not accept the report of the membership committee.) It is not necessary to make a motion of this kind.

4. Be prepared (if necessary) to defend or speak on your motion AFTER a second has been taken by the chair.

Tips & Warnings

• Go to your local library, bookstore or do an online search for Roberts Rules of Order.

• Pick up the full version or the "in brief" version. Either one will suffice for something so basic.

• Know the proper time on the agenda to make your motion so that it is not ruled out of order.

Resources

• Roberts Rules of Order