When you think of formal meetings, you might envision a meeting with a defined agenda, strict protocols, and a designated speaker who leads discussions. There may also be someone who notes the meeting according to certain guidelines and use formal language. These conventions might not be present in informal meetings.
The topic of discussion will determine the atmosphere and how people interact during the meeting, regardless of whether they are voting or discussing. For instance, a gathering with a sole topic of loose ends https://boardroomrecords.com/why-boardrooms-need-great-marketing-leaders/ and old business is a great chance to discuss important issues that were previously left unfinished, and to discuss the impact these items will have on the future of work. A meeting with a focus regarding new business plans would be a great chance to discuss the new initiatives, and assess how they are incorporated into the overall strategy of the business.
It is crucial for participants to feel comfortable expressing their opinions and not worry about how they will be perceived. If you notice that someone is hesitant to speak, you could consider broadening the discussion by asking them to make a comment on an issue brought up by another member of the group. This can help keep the discussion focused on the discussion itself rather than an argument between personalities. As the meeting progresses it is important to ensure that the conversation remains on topic and that the quorum of participants is present. It is helpful to follow-up with the participants following the meeting to ask for feedback. This will increase their importance to the outcomes of the meeting.