parliamentary procedure tips

A presiding officer and a secretary are the minimum essential officers for an organization.
A quorum is the minimum number of members who must be present for a meeting to conduct substantive business. If no specific quorum number is set in the bylaws the quorum is considered the majority of members.
A simple order of business includes the reading and approval of minutes, reports, unfinished business and new business.
Making a main motion is the formal method to bring business before a group so a decision can be made.
To make a main motion:
- Be recognized by the chairman to speak.
- State the motion by saying “I move that…” followed by a second.
- The chairman repeats the motion exactly as it was made.
- Motion is debated or discussed.
- The chairman restates the motion and takes a vote.
- Results of the vote are announced.

To change a motion you can amend it by inserting or adding words, striking out words or striking out and inserting words. Amendments should say exactly where in the main motion the change is to be made, and precisely what words to be used.
Any member has a right to vote even if their dues are unpaid unless the membership has been suspended due to a formal disciplinary process. Typical methods of voting include: a voice vote (aye or no), a standing vote, a show of hands, a counted vote or a ballot vote.
Bylaws are basic rules in a document that relates specifically to an organization. They state the group’s purpose, list qualifications and selection of membership, specify officers, committees and meetings plus a quorum.

If you are going to be involved in groups whose meetings are at all complex or deal with controversy, or if you are going to be an officer, especially a president of any group, it is essential to use Robert's Rules of Order, twelfth edition. It is America’s foremost guide to parliamentary procedure.