Spurred on by the pandemic, many locals have begun holding their meetings online. Most locals say they plan to continue using Zoom - either staying completely online, or doing a hybrid of in-person and online meeting.
Organizing virtual meetings takes some up-front work, but can increase members’ access to their union. All of the mechanics and constitutional requirements of a local meeting still apply, but are conducted in a different way.
Below you will find resources and training videos to support your local to hold successful virtual meetings.
Resources
Video Training
Learn all the basics of planning and hosting virtual union local meetings! Get started with the basics of Zoom and hybrid meetings, walk through the steps to starting and running the meeting, and go over the HEU meeting template.
1. INTRODUCTION
In this video series, you will learn the basics of how to use Zoom for your local virtual meetings.
This introduction covers why locals are using Zoom, and a reminder of the constitutional requirements of a local meeting.
2. GETTING STARTED WITH ZOOM
To get started with online local meetings, we suggest you create a local email account, build an email list, create a Facebook group (optional), and purchase a Zoom account. This video will also go over Zoom account settings, creating a Zoom meeting, and inviting members to the meeting.
3. HYBRID MEETINGS
Hybrid meetings include a mix of online and in-person participants. In this video you will learn how to conduct a hybrid meeting, tips for internet connection, and options for your hybrid audio and video set up.
4. STARTING THE MEETING
Before you start your virtual meeting, you will have to think about meeting roles and how to prep for the meeting. In this video you will also learn how to admit members into the meeting, and how to verify and record member attendance.
5. RUNNING THE MEETING
In this video you will learn about screen sharing, troubleshooting technical issues, establishing ground rules, and conducting a motion virtually.
6. LOCAL MEETING TEMPLATE
In this final video, we'll go through some important slides from the HEU local meeting slideshow template, including tips on the initiation of new members!
7. MOCK LOCAL MEETING
See how to run a meeting in this mock local meeting! This bonus video is a live demonstration that will give you an example of how to chair a meeting, from opening to adjournment.