T.O.M. to orient the meeting
T.O.M., these are the three key points for an opening that sets both the structure and the tone:
T for Theme: In one short sentence, present the subject of the meeting.
O for Objective: Again briefly, express what we are together
for. To take a decision? To respond to questions? To define a plan of
action...?
M for Method: Announce how the meeting will proceed. For
example: "First I will explain in a few words the current situation and
then we will work together to find solutions by..."
You invite the whole group to engage themselves, already in the introduction.
Quickly give others the floor
The objective? To avoid long monologues or detailed expositions
but rather to rapidly draw out initial reactions, questions, and
possible objections: it is in this way that the group will
become invested in the meeting, and contribute material to it.
After this period of exchange, each member will be "engaged in the
subject" and more attentive to key messages and explanations
that you wish to communicate.
Help the group's ideas to emerge
A team is more invested in a problem if it is participating in
the analysis of issues and the search for solutions. It is a matter then
of resisting the urge to provide your own ideas, and
instead to probe, question, reformulate, and get them to emerge
from the group.
You also insure that each member can express his own point of view and add his touch to the canvas.