The Project Management Tool Kit: 100 Tips and Techniques for Getting the Job Done Right

Start the Meeting

First and foremost: Begin on time. Waiting for late participants rewards inappropriate behavior and leads to progressively later and later starts.

For small meetings where people do not know each other, begin with introductions. For larger meetings, when introductions may not be practical, begin with an interactive “ice breaker” activity.

Start the meeting with a review of the meeting objectives and the agenda from your meeting preparation. Make any necessary adjustments and post the agenda where it is visible. Resolve any details remaining from meeting preparation.

Get agreement on how to run the meeting. If you lack a list of standard ground rules, spend a few minutes and develop them. Typical meeting ground rules include: ...