Any advice for running a discussion-based Meetup?
March 5, 2018 7:54 AM   Subscribe

I'm hoping to put together a discussion-based Meetup (as opposed to activity-based), but I don't have a lot of experience managing conversations between larger groups of strangers. What are some things to keep in mind when leading a discussion between 5 to 10 people? If the object is networking and socializing as much as it is to have stimulating discussion (maybe more so), what strategies can I use to see that people have a chance to get to know each other personally once the primary discussion or discussions have died down?

I'm envisioning a laid back group. Perhaps things will naturally go smoothly, without requiring too much leadership or intervention, but as I've never participated in a formal Meetup, I'd like to sidestep any issues that might come about that could ruin everyone's enjoyment. As the group will be based around a common interest, and I shouldn't have any problem coming up with prompts and questions to stimulate discussion. Here are the tips I've been offered or so far:

-Keep the overall RSVP limit to no more than 10-12
-Sunday seems like the most popular day, or at least the most convenient
-Prepare a list of discussion topics and questions
-Consider sharing the leadership role with someone
-Scout locations. Coffee shops and restaurants are good possibilities. It's not a bad idea to warn the venue that you're having a gathering.
-Arrive early

Anything else I should keep in mind? What should the duration be? I know I should probably attend a Meetup to check things out, but there aren't any local ones I have much interest in, which is part of why I'm anxious to start my own.
posted by millions to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (1 answer total) 2 users marked this as a favorite
 
My church had a wonderful activity recently where the attending members formed two circles with chairs seated opposite each other and the inner circle rotated every ten minutes. You were allowed to have a freeform discussion, or choose questions from a board game. After five minutes, someone rang a bell to let you know that you only had five minutes left. It was a lot of fun, and I'd urge you to consider that format.
posted by Mr. Fig at 8:37 AM on March 5, 2018 [1 favorite]


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