When you think of formal meetings, you probably envision a gathering that has a specific agenda, strict rules, and an assigned speaker who leads discussions. A person could take notes in a formal manner and follow a specific structure. These www.boardroomrecords.com/why-public-companies-need-a-board-portal/ conventions may not be used in informal meetings.
The topic of discussion will determine the atmosphere and the way people interact during the meeting, regardless of whether they are voting or chatting. For example, a meeting with a sole topic of old business and loose ends is a great chance to address issues that were previously left unfinished, and to discuss the impact these items will have on the future work. A meeting with a focus regarding new business plans would be a good time to discuss these initiatives and determine how they are incorporated into the overall strategy of the business.
It is essential for the participants to feel comfortable in expressing their opinions and not be concerned about how they will be perceived. If you notice that one of your participants is hesitant to speak, consider widening the discussion by asking them for their thoughts on an issue raised by another participant in the group. This can help keep the meeting focused on the concepts themselves instead of an argument between personalities. It is important to keep the conversation on topic and ensure that a quorum remains in the room as the meeting progresses. It is beneficial to follow-up with participants following the meeting and request feedback. This will reinforce their importance to the outcome of the meeting.