What are some good ways to start a meeting?

Start the meeting by informing the participants of the purpose of the meeting, then explain the benefits and importance of having that meeting. Empower the participants by describing their role in the meeting, and immediately engage them to encourage more discussion on the agenda of the meeting.

Ask meeting participants to give updates on their last assignments, but in case the group is too big, start by appreciating the members for previous accomplishments, then follow it up with a surprising statistic or a quote. Use the follow-up as an eye opener for the purpose and direction the meeting is to take.