Chairing+a+Meeting

Chairing a meeting

Chairing an international meeting in English can be quite a daunting task for someone who is not a native speaker. In order to be efficient, the chair needs to be both tactful and assertive, which is not easy for someone who is not using their own language. The role of the chair is complex and involves the following:

? ensuring that the objectives of the meeting are met and any necessary decisions

are taken . ? ensuring that the necessary people are invited and are able to participate . ? putting together the agenda , and allotting an appropriate amount of time for

each item . ? welcoming the participants and opening the meeting. ? checking all participants have a copy of the agenda .

? keeping the meeting on track . If one issue begins to dominate, suggest a further

meeting to discuss it, or call for a decision and move onto the next topic.

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preventing or diffusing disputes .

? being impartial , making sure that everyone has an opportunity to express their

opinion, and that nobody dominates . ? clarifying where necessary.

?asking ons to obtain information or to direct the discussion . suitable questi ?

summarising at the end of each topic and the meeting to make sure that everyone has a clear overview of the discussion and that the minutes accurately reflect the proceedings . ? emphasising decisions made and actions to be taken.

Useful language

Here are some useful phrases that you can use when chairing a meeting.