When you think of formal meetings, you probably envision a meeting with a defined agenda, strict protocol and a designated speaker who is boardrooms in charge of discussions. There might also be a person who makes notes that adhere to a specific structure and use formal language. For informal gatherings, these rules may not be in place.

The discussion topic will determine the atmosphere and the way people interact during the meeting, regardless of whether they are voting or chatting. A meeting that has only the topic of old work and loose ends can be a great chance to discuss significant issues which have not been completed and how they impact future work. A meeting with a topic regarding new business plans would be a great opportunity to discuss these initiatives, and assess how they will fit into the overall strategy of the company.

It is crucial that the participants feel comfortable in expressing their opinions during the group, and that they don’t worry about how their ideas will be received. If you notice that someone is hesitant to speak, think about broadening the discussion by asking them for their thoughts on an issue raised by a participant in the group. This will keep the discussion focused on the discussion itself rather than the possibility of a clash of personalities. It is crucial to keep the conversation focused and ensure that a quorum is present throughout the meeting. It is also helpful to follow up with participants after the meeting to solicit feedback, as this will increase the importance of their involvement in the final outcome of the meeting.