Formal Meeting Structure

Step 5: Dealing with disruptive behaviour

• Deal with disruptive behaviour as follows:
  • Coming in late - Reward and thank those who were there on time.
  • Argumentative behaviour - Keep your and his/her temper in check. Find some merit in the points being made. Speak to the individual in private, when possible.
  • Members engaging in side conversations - Avoid sarcasm. Restate the last comment made. Explain to the group the need to hear the information.
  • Losing focus - Implement a 'parking lot' for divergent ideas. Restate the purpose of discussion and the need to stick to the agenda.
  • Complaints - Point out what can and can’t be changed. Ask group for ideas on how to best operate.
  • Passive behaviour - Examine what motivates the members have who are not participating. Proactively ask for their opinion on the matters being discussed.