Your first meeting as chair: a script for coming out alive (and applauded)

The first meeting is daunting. With a script, it is even enjoyable.

Before (80% of the success)

• A short, specific agenda: four or five items maximum. "Any other business" at the end and against the clock.
• The numbers prepared and visual: three key figures, not a wall of text.
• Notice served in time, with a second call and a proxy form.
• Announce the length: "45 minutes". And mean it.

During

1. Start on time (reward the punctual, not the latecomers).
2. One item, one time slot, one decision. If a debate loops twice over the same ground: "I propose we vote on what we have, or bring it back better prepared next time".
3. Votes, made clear: exactly what is being voted on, who is in favour, who against, shares counted. Out loud and into the minutes.
4. Personal matters ("the noise from the third floor") get redirected: "let's discuss that separately, it is not business for the meeting".

The close

Summarise in one minute the resolutions taken and who does what. That list is the draft of the minutes — and the feeling that the meeting was worth attending.

Afterwards

Minutes within the week (not in three months), sent to everyone. A chair's reputation is built right there: short meetings, clear resolutions, paperwork up to date. By the second meeting, people turn up.