Tips on Being a Good President:

Every neighborhood association should have someone who takes the lead
in making sure that the meeting runs smoothly. The president should NEVER
monopolize the floor or dominate the discussion. His or her job is to make sure
that people stay on the agenda, both in content and timing.

Here are some pointers on being a positive and effective neighborhood president or leader when running a meeting:

1. Introduce yourself at the beginning of the meeting. Don't assume people know who you are.

2. Inform people as to how the meeting will proceed. Review the agenda.

3. Direct the discussion. Keep people on the topic. When issues are brought up that are irrelevant, remind them that there will be a time for new business. If people are repetitive, repeat the information that has already been shared. If a decision needs to be made, inform members.

4. Limit your own opinions.

5. Mediate arguments if they arise. Remain impartial and fair. Give each side a chance to state their point of view.

6. Review what has to be done. Make sure that people leave the meeting with a clear understanding of what decisions have been made and what tasks are to be done by whom.

7. Lead by example. Promote team work, consensus building and fairness at meetings and in all activities of the association. Good communication and solid cooperation are important to the success of an association.

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