• Start the meeting on time
• Confirm the purpose of the meeting
• Keep the group focused on the outcomes or tasks
• Direct and manage the meeting
• Be tactful in cases where old or irrelevant arguments are raised
• Bring each agenda item to a conclusion before moving on
• Summarise each topic before starting the next
• Create open, positive and participative environment
• Draw quieter members into the discussion (they may have a valuable contribution to make)
• Actively build rapport amongst members
• Demonstrate self-awareness and self-expression
• Help members own and take responsibility for the meeting outcomes
• Recognise negative emotions
• Deal with conflict and negative emotions constructively
• Recognise ‘hostile’ silence (it may be directed at the idea, the chair, or any other aspect of the meeting)
• Support junior members who may be inexperienced at attending meetings or unfamiliar with procedures
• Encourage and support multiple perspectives, or even a clash of ideas (but not personalities)
• Arrange appropriate refreshment breaks for long meetings
• End the meeting on a positive note
• Summarise the points raised and the way forward
• Conduct end of meeting evaluation
• End the meeting on time

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