President’s Message Embracing Electronic Meetings

Embracing Electronic Meetings

We have reached a milestone! It has been more than one year since we adapted to using social distancing and personal protective equipment in our service as parliamentarians. Some embraced the change with open arms. Some fought the change with clenched fists.

Ultimately, we have been able to share our techniques and help build a process that allows organizations to meet in an electronic environment to conduct their business. But what have we really learned? And where do we go from here?

Through trial and error, we have learned that one of the most difficult tasks undertaken in electronic meetings is remembering to mute and unmute before and after speaking. We have learned that an electronic meeting takes twice as long from start to finish as an in-person meeting if not managed effectively. We have learned that multitasking and inattention while in the meetings contribute to the extended time spent in electronic meetings. We have learned the chat window has become a replacement for social interaction, and can mask questions of procedure and requests for actions if not monitored. Singularly, these are minor inconveniences; but collectively, they have the potential to create unproductive and chaotic meetings. Parliamentary procedure will help the meeting flow better once the inconveniences are addressed.

With each new meeting there are opportunities to take stock of what is in place to conduct a successful meeting. Observing techniques and testing the techniques in various settings help us to determine what to place in our parliamentary toolboxes. Your toolbox is not meant to sit in the corner stuffed with tips and tricks and collect dust. Use your toolbox and be willing to share what you have learned. Is there a webinar presentation given by you waiting in the wings?

Parliamentary Law Month is celebrated each April in the National Association of Parliamentarians®. It is my hope that units and associations opened their toolboxes and shared their experiences. We learn from each other. When we are no longer eager to learn, complacency sets in. It also is my hope that units and associations have made known their existence to, and shared their knowledge with, nonmembers though exhibits, public service announcements, workshops, and other means.

The American humorist, Will Rogers, was quoted as saying, “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” If your unit or association has not availed itself of the information on the NAP website that provides direction for meetings during the pandemic, it is time to end the dormancy. The end of inactivity is only a click away.

Remain safe and alert,

Darlene T. Allen, PRP 2019-2021 NAP President