Although I started on my Junto journey in late October, 2022, it was not until December that invitations were sent for our first meeting in January, 2023. I have learned a few things along the way and offer these observations so you can design your Junto with them in mind.

MEETING TIMES: Against best practice, we have not yet settled on a standard meeting day in each month. We float, cancel, and reschedule to avoid leaving anyone behind. This is probably not as important now as with the first set of meetings where establishing group trust was critical.

The best practice for Junto groups is to have a consistent meeting schedule that allows members to plan and commit to attending discussions. Regularly review the schedule to accommodate participants' availability and consider varying the meeting times to accommodate different time zones or personal commitments.

PREPARATION AND RESOURCES:: As a living record of our journey together, I am posting a little badge for each meeting that lists the date and topic. I’ve also found I need a dedicated file for each topic on my computer and in my cabinet to house all the wonderful research shared by Junto members. We do not take minutes but we all take our own notes as our interest dictates. The materials shared electronically or on paper are more than sufficient in my opinion. They are a professional and studious group. No encouragement is needed to have them properly prepare. If there is pre-reading, or a video to watch, or something to prepare, it is completed without fail. But I don’t expect most groups would have it so easy. Reminders and encouragement will be needed.

CLEAR PURPOSE AND GOALS: Our first Junto group has decided no topic is off-limits. Depending on your group, you may need to establish a clear purpose and set of goals for the Junto. You then need to communicate these objectives to all members to ensure a shared understanding and alignment. This clarity will guide the selection of discussion topics, facilitate engagement, and enhance the overall cohesiveness of the group.

COMMUNITY-BUILDING ACTIVITIES: Our Junto group so far is evolving to be an educational and intellectual pursuit. We discuss actions that could be taken to improve our community, but have not promoted community-building activities directly. Our main focus right now is to promote the concept of the Junto itself so increasing numbers of people will be engaged in their own way to improving themselves and promoting the common good. I see the goodness of more direct actions to help the community, such as Franklin with libraries, hospitals, and such. In addition, as a Junto undertaking, it would foster a sense of camaraderie and connection among members. I am looking toward the second Junto group to go in that direction.

ETERNAL TOPICS: Another thing I’ve noticed, is ending the meeting never closes the topic. The first part of almost every meeting is sharing new and interesting information on past topics. We also send articles to each other on past topics when we come across something cool and amazing. This is not the case with all groups. You may find dyou need to encourage members to extend their learning beyond Junto meetings. You might need to get the ball rolling by sharing relevant articles, books, or events that align with the group's interests.

ROTATION: TOPIC PICKER & LEADER: We rotate who picks the topic for the next meeting. The topic-picker also leads the meeting. It was out of an egalitarian ethic at first, but has yielded unexpected rewards. With a larger group, I can envision a problem that could emerge with this approach. If the person leading the meeting is not a somewhat skilled facilitator, or doesn’t have strong communication and leadership skills, things could unravel in regards to balanced participation, managing time, and promoting a respectful and inclusive atmosphere.

TOPIC SELECTION: Each of the topics for our monthly Junto discussions have been heavy and research intensive. As I reflect on the weight of these difficult topics, I feel a growing desire on my part to have a lighter, more accessible topic to avoid burn-out. I think it is important to curate a more diverse range of topics that include some that are not so complex or controversial. a palate cleanser of sorts.

LUNCH: Our meetings last about 2.5 hours from 9-11:30 am. After the third meeting, we realized this is never long enough, but we’re hungry. To keep the discussion going, we decided to add lunch after our meeting for those that are interested. So far, everyone has attended every lunch.

EXCLUSIVITY: Although it is critical to pick a diverse group of people for the Junto group, as people have heard about our Junto they have asked to join. Depending on the style and sensibilities of participants, there is a set number of people that will be the sweet spot, otherwise some people might be sidelined in a larger group. Our Junto members felt they were right-sized and will not take on new members unless one leaves. That said, I am in the process of starting a second Junto group for double the fun. For your Junto, you too should determine the ideal group size that allows for meaningful participation and effective discussions. Consider the diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences within the group to foster enriching conversations. Aim for a balance between familiarity and introducing new members to maintain a dynamic environment.

OPEN SEATS: In the second Junto group, I intend to have a set number of empty seats, so there will be a small core group who know the drill and can carry the meeting if needed. But there will also be empty slots so we can invite new people, especially those with a keen interest or background in the discussion topic.

CODE OF CONDUCT:

Since our group members have known each other for decades, we did not feel the need to develop a Code of Conduct. In the second Junto I will host, I intend to develop a set of ground rules and a code of conduct that promote respectful and inclusive dialogue. The members in the second group will not have the benefit of familiarity so it is important to emphasize active listening, open-mindedness, and the importance of constructive criticism. The second group also may need to be encouraged to express themselves freely while maintaining a focus on understanding and learning from diverse viewpoints. It’s difficult to do when you passionately disagree, so a Code of Conduct gives the discussion leader something to which he or she can point.

TESTIMONIALS: Although a Junto would be fingernails on a chalkboard for some, for every member in our group Junto Day has become one of their favorite days of each month. And when it’s their topic, it is one of their favorite days of the year. It is a riveting experience every time.

I think this evaluation and reflection activity should be a standard part of the Junto process. The needs of the group and the dynamics evolve. It’s critical to remain attuned to these changes and continuously assess the effectiveness of the group's structure, meeting format, topics, etc. It’s also important to seek feedback from members, and to make necessary adjustments and improvements accordingly.