Business Meetings

DO

Distribute an agenda at least two days in advance. As a participant, read the agenda and be prepared.

Arrive on time. It is rude and disrespectful to others to be late.

Introduce yourself, if necessary, when you arrive. Greet others.

Wait to be seated until told where to sit (especially if you are new to the group).

Contribute ideas and help the leader keep the meeting on target.

Clean up after yourself. Dispose of any papers or trash you have generated.

DO NOT

Allow your cell phone to ring in the middle of a meeting. Never talk on a phone during a meeting.

Slouch or lean on the table with our elbows. Look alert by maintaining proper posture.

Perform personal grooming tasks such as applying lipstick, combing your hair, or clipping your fingernails.

Read memos or e-mail while others are speaking. Do not play with paperclips, bite pencils, or doodle.

Interrupt others who are speaking. Signal the meeting leader that you wish to speak and wait your turn.

Leave early without a good reason. Tell others that you will be leaving at a specific time and apologize.