Meetings & Discussions

The business world today revolves around a productive exchange of ideas, practices and goals, typically conducted in a meeting forum. Organized procedures allied with active and eager participation are often determining factors for a meeting’s effectiveness and success. A general rule of thumb is that efficient meetings are 80% preparation and 20% execution.

Proper facilitation is one of the most important ingredients for productive town hall meetings and discussions. Understanding what you would like to accomplish and then helping you to achieve it is the key to Paul’s success as a facilitator. He will assist you in developing clear, concise and achievable goals, and expedite the session to keep your group on track.

As your facilitator, Paul will assume responsibilities that include:

• Initiating items or proposals
• Presenting talking points, questions and expectations
• Facilitating discussion and action
• Maintaining focus and guiding the group
• Encouraging brainstorming and open discussion
• Capturing and assigning action items
• Expediting a timely and orderly meeting
• Preventing information overload
• Following up on action items for future meetings

If needed, Paul will employ the basics of Robert’s Rules of Order through knowledge of Parliamentary procedure, conduct attendee introductions and expectations, and guide any other meeting procedures as requested.

Crucial to his success as a facilitator, Paul will engage the group through communication by encouraging practices such as:

• Addressing others with respect
• Mutual accountability between members and facilitator
• Minimizing or eliminating distractions
• Keeping emotions at bay
• Listening effectively versus speaking
• Reading members’ gear changes
• Encouraging feedback
• Executing an effective question and answer session

By encouraging individuals through positive actions, the participants will leave empowered with a greater understanding and respect for diversity, united for a common cause.