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Effective Meetings

Do you find yourself at the end of your meetings wondering how well they went? You can review these points with the other officers and members to evaluate how effective your meetings are.

The meeting was well planned if:

  1. Members were notified in advance.
  2. An agenda was prepared.
  3. Officers and committees made pertinent reports.
  4. The meeting room was prearranged.

The meeting was well organized if:

  1. The meeting began on time.
  2. Guests were introduced and welcomed.
  3. Agendas were available for all members.
  4. The purpose for the meeting were made clear.
  5. There was a transition from the last meeting.
  6. One topic was discussed at a time.
  7. One person spoke at a time.
  8. Discussion remained relevant to the topic at hand.
  9. The chairperson summarized the main points of the discussion.
  10. The meeting moved along at a workable pace.
  11. Committee assignments were complete and clear.
  12. Plans for the next meeting were announced.
  13. All that was planned for the meeting was covered.

Participation was effective if:

  1. Members participated in discussion and voting.
  2. Significant questions were asked.
  3. The pros and cons of all issues were considered.
  4. Members made suggestions to committees.
  5. Responsibilities were evenly distributed.
  6. Members participated in planning the agenda for the next meeting.

The meeting was valuable if:

  1. Progress was made toward the group's desired goals.
  2. Information was dispersed to the members effectively.

The meeting was positive if:

  1. Attendance was good.
  2. Attendees were on time.
  3. There was humor during the meeting.
  4. Members and officers assisted one another when needed.
  5. There was an atmosphere of free expression.

USED WITH PERMISSION: University of Michigan Office of Student Activities and Leadership Handouts