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Getting Started
Robert's Rules of Order are just one component of running great meetings. Gaining skills in better meeting management can be divided into three separate learning stages:
- Understand the principles that underlie good meetings
- Learn the technical details
- Get experience in actual meetings
The more you can absorb in each of these three areas, the better you will become at running dynamic, productive, and effective meetings using Robert's Rules.
1. Understand the Principles that Underlie Good Meetings
In order to learn any new skill, it's important to understand the theory behind the practice.
The materials we provide give an immediate grasp of the basic principles in easily understandable and comprehensible chunks.
This article provides three rules, all based on Robert's Rules of Order, that will improve any meeting of any size or type.
2. Learn the Technical Details
Once you have gained an understanding and appreciation for what a well-run meeting should look like, you will want to get into the nitty-gritty details of parliamentary procedure.
A good way to become familiarized is to purchase Robert's Rules of Order in Brief, published by DaCapo Press. that can be read in an hour or two and gives an overview of the principles and rules you need.
We publish articles like this one that explain the technical side of Robert.
Visit our Glossary page for information about terminology and jargon.
3. Get Experience in Actual Meetings
Since running a meeting is a "performance art," there is no substitute for jumping in. Check out your local city council, which may have its meetings televised; volunteer to assist at the board meeting of a nonprofit charity; or attend a membership meeting of Rotary International or other service groups. Observing actual meetings will raise your level of knowledge and help you apply what you have learned.
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Three 'Golden Rules' for Discussion
Follow these three simple rules to improve discussion in your group, and ensure fairness and courtesy for all.
How to Call the Question
Understand what the "call the question" motion is and how to use it appropriately.