Meeting Delivery:

It is important to welcome each member and introduce new ones. To start the meeting on a positive note, plan a short activity to help all members get involved. This could involve checking in with each member and having them state one goal for the meeting, or what they would like to accomplish during the meeting. Make sure each member has a copy of the agenda and the norms are reviewed. Go over the agenda and point out which items on the agenda are action items and which items need decisions, then make sure decisions are based on the desired outcomes. Once decisions are made, restate them so they are clear to all members and link the decisions to the expected outcomes. As a team, decide what the next steps for each agenda item will be. The team should also have input on items for the next meeting agenda.

During the meeting, each member should be practicing active listening. Active listening includes both verbal and nonverbal responses. Individuals should be making eye contact and restating ideas and opinions to ensure that all comprehend what is being shared. Members should take note of others’ ideas and opinions without making quick judgments or evaluations. Make sure members have time to reflect before asking for opinions. This allows time for members to assess and formulate responses.

Agendas should also be used to help subcommittees organize and designate roles for specific activities/projects. They can assist in keeping the activity aligned to the goal and identify methods of data collection.