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Tip #1.  Start by emphasizing the benefits of using Parliamentary Procedure
When I was a student leader no one ever told me that I would be using this stuff after I graduated. The truth is everyone attends meetings and knowing how to effectively apply Parliamentary Procedure will make you more effective, no matter what field you are in.  Start the teaching process by telling people why they are learning this tool.  Saying that one needs to use it because it is a part of your bylaws is not a good enough reason and will not motivate people to want to learn.  Help them understand that it is a tool that they can use throughout the duration of their careers.

Tip #2.  Stick to the basics
Don’t teach too much too fast! Make certain that everyone on your team is learning the same basic motions at the same pace.  Too many times people try to cram too much information into a training.  In my DVD, "Driving the Language of Parliamentary Procedure" I review the 7 fundamental motions used during most meetings.  During my live trainings I start with teaching just the three most commonly used motions (Main Motion, Amendment & Amend the Amendment). Sometimes you have to slow the learning process down before you can speed up

Tip #3. Provide ongoing training opportunities
People are not going to learn everything in the first training.  Provide opportunities for people to practice outside of the meetings so they feel like they can be more productive during the meetings.  Consider doing more than one training throughout the year and give new members different resources to learn this tool.

Tip #4.  Make your meetings a learning environment
Are your meetings intimidating?  This is a very common problem, but creating a safe space for people to learn is key to the success of your team.  If people do not feel comfortable communicating then you are sure to end up wasting valuable time.

Tip #5.  Bring in an outside facilitator
Sometimes this can be helpful to move the group forward with learning Parliamentary Procedure. Having an outside facilitator is a great way to speed up the learning process.  I work with organizations across the country teaching them how to use this very valuable tool.  One tip about hiring a Parliamentary Procedure facilitator: Make sure they are fun!  Most facilitators make this topic feel dry, when it doesn't need to be.  Hire a facilitator to not only teach your members Parliamentary Procedure but also to motivate them to want to learn!

That's it for now…happy meetings!