o The chairperson states the motion including the second.


o Members debate the motion; beginning with the maker of the motion, this is where the motion is more clearly identified and defined for those in attendance. For other members to offer discussion on the motion, they must be recognized by the chair.


o Vote-Once the discussion time is complete, the


chairperson calls for the vote by asking those present if they are ‘ready for the question,’ and repeats the motion. Calling the vote and asks those in favor to say ‘aye,’ and those opposed to say ‘nay’ (or no.)


o If the vote is too close to determine from the verbal indication, the chairperson may poll the attendees to get an accurate count. Once tallied, the chair announces the result by re-stating the motion, then indicates if the motion is adopted or lost.


Another way to ensure meeting efficiency is to set expectations of attendees by enforcing these protocols:


• One Thing at a Time


This can be facilitated by following the agenda. When addressing an item, if it is premature to hold a vote on


the item, table it for the next meeting, and move on. This maintains forward progress of business and promotes efficiency.


• Stay on Topic


Speakers occasionally drift from the current topic at hand and segue into another item. Some speakers think they are being efficient by expressing all their opinions in one turn, when instead it derails the meeting agenda. This is where a set time limit comes into play. A three-minute maximum will encourage speakers to be concise with their statements.


• Prohibit Cross Conversations


Side chatter is disruptive to the meeting as a whole and prevents attendees from being able to hear the business at hand. Only those who have been recognized by the chair and given the floor should be allowed to speak. This is critical to maintain an orderly meeting.


When boards and members commit to utilizing these concepts, they can ensure efficient meetings that leave the conflict, drama and chair throwing to the daytime talk shows.


We are adjourned.


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