1. Start the Meeting On a Positive Note  

As the meeting leader, your mood actually matters. It sets the tone.

Research suggests it even produces a contagion effect on attendees – where attendees mood mirrors yours. 

Start the meeting with energy, appreciation and gratitude, especially during this challenging time.  

Doing so increases the chances of a more positive meeting mood state which actually matters as it promotes more participation, creativity, listening, and constructiveness – all essential to inclusion.   

I am not at all suggesting leaders are artificially positive, but even in difficult circumstances we can display energy, appreciation, and gratitude.