How to get your meeting off to a good start ?
Preparation and punctuality
Wondering how to start a meeting? In fact, before asking yourself this question, a number of points need to be checked beforehand:
- Everything must be in place before the participants arrive, starting with your tie;
- Don’t hesitate to check your outfit one last time in the mirror, because a badly buttoned shirt or an untied shoelace can tarnish your image before you’ve even been introduced;
- Check that all your equipment (PC, projector, felt-tip pens, etc.) and Internet connection are working properly;
- If a PowerPoint presentation is scheduled, open the document to the first page and minimize the window so as not to reveal its contents;
- And above all, be on time! Set an example if you want to earn the respect of your audience.
How to get your meeting off to a good start
Smile, you're being watched. Attire, gait, expression, body language, speaking… Meeting organizers are scrutinized from the very first seconds by participants.
Do you want to get off to a good start and achieve your objectives? The Accor group’s meetings experts will show you the golden rules to follow to get your meeting off to the best possible start.
Wondering how to start a meeting? In fact, before asking yourself this question, a number of points need to be checked beforehand:
- Everything must be in place before the participants arrive, starting with your tie;
- Don’t hesitate to check your outfit one last time in the mirror, because a badly buttoned shirt or an untied shoelace can tarnish your image before you’ve even been introduced;
- Check that all your equipment (PC, projector, felt-tip pens, etc.) and Internet connection are working properly;
- If a PowerPoint presentation is scheduled, open the document to the first page and minimize the window so as not to reveal its contents;
- And above all, be on time! Set an example if you want to earn the respect of your audience.
Has everyone found a place? Are all eyes on you? Before talking about yourself or your company, flatter your participants. Thank them for coming, emphasize their punctuality and the precious time they’ve given you.
A few smiles on the faces? Congratulations, you’ve achieved your first objective: to create a relaxing setting and attract the attention of your participants.
List the rules they are required to respect, particularly as regards the use of cell phones, and point out that they contribute to the smooth running of the meeting.
Now’s the time to talk about yourself. Mention your name, your role in the company you represent and, if you feel that your experience works in your favor, your background.
However, don’t fall into megalomania. Be cordial, relaxed and a good listener. And above all, look your audience in the eye.
Humor and complicity are very effective weapons for getting what you want. Invite participants to introduce themselves if there aren’t too many of them. This is a very important step, as it allows each member to integrate into the group.
Briefly mention the theme of the meeting and the objective to be achieved. Don’t go into too much detail – you’ll have plenty of time to show off your public speaking skills later. The point here is to set the scene and remind everyone why you’ve come together. Pause for a moment to observe reactions and invite questions before moving on to the agenda.
In principle, all participants should have received and studied the agenda in advance of the meeting. That said, it’s best to go over the main points with them. The people in front of you may have just come from another meeting, dropped their children off at school or had a snack. They now need to concentrate on their subject and you need to help them do that.
Last but not least: call latecomers and troublemakers to order with a touch of humor or irony. By doing so, you’re letting them know that your gentle hand can also be firm.
