Function vs. functionary.

Power struggle with each item on the agenda, as people want to have the respect or honor, but do not necessarily want to do the work or to carry out the function. Thus, a function may be carried out by one person or clique, but be controlled by a different functionary. In other cases, the difference between a significant and insignificant functionary may sometimes be muddled.

Some meetings may choose to determine where the participants stand on a particular issue, or on previous decisions. Again, there may well be a power struggle.

When taking a stand on issues, some meeting participants may show power or weakness by trying to fix blame.

When it is necessary to fix blame, a real leader will accept blame for the specific issues in which they are at fault. The meeting will then be able to determine how to rectify the situation. See the quotation at the top of this page.

Recording secretary

Reinforce statements at meeting by turning to the secretary who takes minutes, repeating the important statement, and then asking, "Did you get that down?" The other participants will perk up and realize that something important was said.

Give credit when somebody says something important - both at the time, and in the minutes.