Have you been in meetings that last forever and nothing gets done?

There's a better way!

Use parliamentary procedure to have more efficient and fair meetings.

It's a set of rules for conducting business at meetings and public gatherings.

These rules outline how members can present, discuss, and vote on proposals at a meeting.

Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (commonly abbreviated RONR) is the most widely used manual of parliamentary procedure in the United States.

Parliamentary procedure allows everyone's voice to be heard when making decisions.

Let these 3 principles guide you:

1. One thing/person at time — this avoids confusion and chaos, and saves time.

2. Minority has a say — both sides should be discussed before making a decision.

3. Majority rules — at least more than half of the group must agree to take action.

Quorum — minimum number of members needed to conduct business

Agenda — list and order of topics to discuss at the meeting

The Chair — presiding officer who runs the meeting and enforces the rules

Minutes — written record of what happens at the meeting

As a member of a group, you can bring up business and make decisions by:

• Making a motion — proposing that the group take action

• Seconding a motion — expressing support for discussing the motion

• Debating motions — sharing your opinion on the motion, either in favor or against

• Voting on motions — helping the group make a decision supported by the majority

Have more productive meetings with parliamentary procedure!