John Adair's 100 Greatest Ideas for Brilliant Communication

Idea 73: Keeping the discussion on course

As chairperson you should remember to begin the meeting by saying what its purpose is and why it is necessary. Don’t assume that everyone knows. You may also want to check that the participants are comfortable with the agenda, so that your plan for the meeting now becomes our plan for it. In a pleasant but firm way, show that you have taken charge.

If a long-winded person still challenges you for the right of way, by continuing to talk over others or by interrupting again, then you will have to show some steel until they get the message. Never lose control.

Heading off potential or actual irrelevancies is also a vital part of controlling a meeting. Sometimes a ‘red herring’ looks more tasty than the ‘bread-and-butter’ ...