How to lead a meeting?

I know there are many tips for efficient meetings, but I want to hear the experience you have. Even if you do not lead meetings, what are the things that you like, the things that you think make a pleasant meeting (well, at least bearable ;)).

If you lead meetings, is it natural for you, or you have to prepare mentally?

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malizz · 70-79, M

You have to set a framework so that people know what to expect in terms of time and business to be covered. Ideally everyone, not just the more assertive, should have the chance to air their views without being bogged down in disagreement or straying from the point. You can't please everyone all the time but they should feel that they have had a fair hearing.

sumojumo · 36-40, M

@malizz that is a great point - the very assertive people have it easy in such meetings, but if you overlook the others you loose a lot of great ideas and it also makes them feel that these are useless meetings.