Tools for Effective Meetings

THIS DOCUMENT WAS PRODUCED BY THE NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP
PROGRAM.  IT IS POSTED BY THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES FOR PUBLIC
USE.  THE CENTER FOR RURAL STUDIES ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR
THE CONTENTS.  FOR MORE INFORMATION, REFER TO THE USERS GUIDE.

                  TOOLS FOR EFFECTIVE MEETINGS

> Introduction

We have had in our society the concept of a leader having certain
characteristics such as intelligence, aggressiveness, courage, etc. 
The New England Regional Leadership (NERL) Program philosophy of a
leader goes beyond specific characteristics.  We believe leadership
is a function rather than the position or title that is held.
Leadership in this sense is responding to the needs of the
situation and group in such a way that the group achieves its
goals.

The performance of a group depends upon a leader's style of
interaction and the degree to which the leader has influence in a
particular situation.

No one can meet all the needs of a group nor should anyone be
expected to.  Because leadership is situational, it can be shared
within groups for greater effectiveness.  All members of a group
are responsible to work toward goal achievement. 

Shared leadership occurs when each member of the group assumes
responsibility.  While an individual may be the designated leader,
and given a special function, he/she is still responsible as a
member.  Shared leadership benefits the group by: 

     þ using the talents of members
     þ stimulating varied interests
     þ encouraging personal creativity
     þ helping people grow

We encourage you to continue your leadership education by
incorporating shared leadership skills into your work with groups.

Guidelines in this unit lay out a framework for fulfilling the
various shared leadership roles.  The exercises in this section
provide an opportunity to practice these roles and enhance your
group leadership skills.


> Assumptions

Adults can, and do, learn by doing.  Shared leadership provides an
opportunity to try many aspects of group leadership.  Experiential
learning through shared leadership expands the capabilities of the
individual.  Managing various aspects of group meetings requires
basic skills and knowledge of certain techniques.  A series of
guidelines can provide you with the information needed to take on
group roles.
 
 > Learning Objectives

Participants will:

     þ    Gain an understanding of the components of shared
          leadership.
     þ    Practice leadership skills, performing specific
          assignments including meeting manager, introducer,
          reporter, and presentor.
     þ    Share group responsibilities and leadership by serving as
          chair during a business meeting.
           

• Lois M. Frey, UVM Extension, RR #4, Box 2298, Montpelier, VT 05602, (802) 223-2389, email: lfrey@sover.net
• "Group Development: Creating Group Effectiveness" by Duane Dale, DFD Associates, 99 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138-3402 (moving to 764 South East Street, Amherst, MA 01022 after 8/1/98);
• Bob Biagi, 142 Cherry Lane, Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 549-1412;

Comments to: crs@uvm.edu
Reviewed as of 4/20/98