If you intend to lead, Stay out in front
Have you ever walked into a meeting that no one seems to be leading? Well I have, and all I find is a roomful of frustrated people. Nothing bothers meeting participants more than having a leader who doesn’t lead.
If you are the leader or leading a meeting ask yourself these questions before the session:
What do you want your role to be? Establish that at the beginning of the meeting, as well as what authority the group will have. Do you intend to simply facilitate a discussion? Will you allow the group to set the agenda and the process? Do you intend to tell them how you will discuss each idea and come to a decision – consensus or vote? Do you intend to have the final say or will the group have the authority to make the final decision? Will you be a silent observer or do you plan to add your opinion? If the group starts spinning its wheels, be ready with “Which way do you want to go?” “What’s the solution?” “Let’s back up and redefine the problem.”
You don’t have to have all the answers and make all the decisions, but you do need to be out in front.
Either lead or formally give the responsibility to someone else. Then, get out-of-the-way.