Q: How to deal with someone ignoring the agreed meeting etiquette?

A: It’s important that any intervention is firm, but not aggressive – you don’t want to make things worse. However, you need to confront whoever is ignoring the agreed etiquette and not let it pass, otherwise everyone else will think that etiquette is optional.

You should remind the meeting what has been agreed on etiquette and point out whoever is not following the agreed protocol. When confronting the problem, don’t criticise the person but make it clear that their behaviour is unacceptable. Also try to give them some positive feedback – e.g. point out where they have been following the agreed standards. It will also help if you can collectively find better ways of working in the meeting, being ready to amend the etiquette if everyone can agree on any improvements.