Dr. Gary Carlson

Renee, The make up of a meeting is important to the outcomes of a meeting. People who need to know the information should be present. I have chaired many boards over the years an d have found as the leader set ground rules for discussions. They need to be on topic and succinct. In formal meetings I use Robert's Rules of Order. Informal meetings I conduct with rules of conduct for everyone. I make it clear this for each person to express themselves but with information towards the topic. You will find in the interest of time you will have… >>>

Jon, Brain storming is an art. There are times when they become out of control if not handeled correctly.I was part of a brain storming group with teacher negotiations once where there were about 16 people involved. The person facilitating had some requirements we followed. As we went around the room each person would only talk when they had something to contribute. There were timelimits on people to speak and people could pass. After exhausting the suggestions there was a break. After returning Comments would be called upon when someone would ask to be acknowledged. The next meeting there were… >>>

Kathleen I understand your dilemma. My advise to you is to set your conversation. Number one the communication should be controlled. Understanding the emotion of this person there will be no discussion until the person writes down their concerns basing it only on the facts. Stopping and asking to write it down will lower the emotion. Asking the person to schedule a time to come see you. Set up ground rules for a productive discussion and when they are violated the meeting is over. If discussion is in the public at anytime they become unduly emotional they need to gomto… >>>