This is where we really utilize our committees. In our case, the fundraising committee or public relations committee would have listened to his presentation. If it was something that the committee felt would be a good idea for the group, then they could recommend it and fill us in on important information. Another thing that you might try would be let this person know that they have a time limit. When his time is up, if he isn't finished, suggest that he stick around until after the meeting to answer any questions. That way parents who don't care to hear, have to get children in bed or whatever feel that they can leave. But are leaving that the PTO business was taken care of. This may or may not work for you, it was just the first thoughts that came to mind.
We had a local photography company do a presentation last night. He took about an hour-hour fifteen minutes to do his presentation. I reminded him twice that we had a lot of other pressing business to dicuss. Needless to say he didn't seem to hear me. Half of the members left before we could discuss next year's Fall fundraiser options and chairperson position openings for next year. I was totally frustrated. Any suggestions for future use. Obviously, next meeting we will not have any presentations. We have too much important business to discuss.
