Step #4: The Agenda

         It's time to get yourself on-track for your meeting. You have prepared the question that you would like to present, and hopefully you have an answer to that question. But, now you must consider how you will communicate your message to the audience, and create an agenda to help you stay on topic throughout. The more that your group is on track, the more success you will encounter at your meeting.

          Break down the steps that need to be accomplished in your head. Sketch out a mental picture of what the meeting looks like. Then, use simple technology to help put these ideas on paper. Type your agenda in an easy-to-read format. There are a number of websites that can help you with the creation of an Agenda. Consider all factors involved. How long will the meeting be? What sort of budget will need to be in place?

          Be as realistic as possible with your agenda. The more realistic you are with your expectations, the more success you will experience in the long-run. Don't overload your plan for the meeting. Consider what the appropriate amount of materials/presentations/topics/exercises are to communicate your message. And, make breaks as long as possible. Everyone should understand the importance of staying fresh, and typically 20 to 30 minutes should do the trick.

          Print your agenda and keep it with you as a tool for your continuous success. Write all over the page and constantly refine your plans. You may find that your expectations/goals change as you go through the steps of organizing a great meeting.

Written By: James Willies
Sources:
          Write an Agenda http://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Agenda-for-a-Meeting
          Planning a Meeting http://www.rwjf.org/files/publications/RWJF_PlanningAMeeting.pdf