An effective meeting continues after is over through a follow-up process. The follow-up activities after the meeting keeps the energy created during the meeting focused on action items developed during the meeting and accomplishing goals stated in the meeting.
Listed below are tips for an effective meeting follow-up.

EFFECTIVE MEETING FOLLOW-UP TIPS

1. Minutes
   1. All meetings should have minutes. Minutes assist the group in recording actions and preventing wasting time repeatedly discussing the same issue.
   2. Minutes should include:
      1. Introduction
         • Name of the team
         • Purpose
         • Date, time and place
         • Name of facilitator and recorder
         • Attendees´ names
      2. Body
         • Brief summary of reports
         • Decision on any action items. Care should be taken in the wording of the agreed-upon decision. If uncertain, check with the team to be sure the wording of the decision is accurate
         • Additional decisions
         • Assignments made include name of person assigned an item needing follow up, its completion date, and the expected reporting date
      3. Conclusion
         • Time meeting concluded
         • Date of next meeting, if known
   3. Minutes Should Not Include
      1. An account of what was said at the meeting
      2. Opinions, interpretations, or judgmental statements by the person recording the minutes
      Formal minutes information can be found here
2. Between meetings, make that sure that action items are being completed
3. Immediately after the meeting, begin the agenda for the next meeting using the Parking Lot

Effective Meeting Planning Tips | Meeting Process Tips | Meeting Follow-Up Tips | Attendees' Responsibilities

[top of page]