HostingSpeech

Things to tell people when hosting an open meeting

1. The Health and Safety stuff

• Draw attention to the notice on the wall near the entrance, and make sure people read it

• Point out fire exits (main entrance, back of main room, upstairs near the toilets and at the end of the corridor past the office). Mention that the front door needs a tag, or break glass to right of door in the event of emergency.

• Point out that many potentially dangerous activities take place; don't touch anything you might regret. (Example: glass rods remain hot enough to burn you long after they look cold)

2. The administrivia

• Point out the route to the toilets. Explain the need to put the tag on the outside in order to be able to get back in. [Note: if you host a meeting, it's your responsibility at the end of the meeting to check that the tag is back inside Makespace]

• Draw attention to the WiFi password

• Explain that the kitchen offers free cold water on tap, and other stuff at 50p an item (unless otherwise marked), including coffee, tea, cold drinks and snacks.

3. The advertising

• Offer a tour of the place to those who have not visited recently/ever

• Mention that membership is open to all.

• Mention that posters are in a pile by the door and we would appreciate them being displayed in workplaces/anywhere else people would like to put them.