- set a time. Don’t conflict with a popular chat of the same topic. Most chats are an hour long and start at the top of the hour. Try to stick to that.
- have a topic and questions. Make it interesting so everyone can participate. Avoid questions that are only meant for a guest to answer, or most people will have nothing to contribute.
- pace. Keep the questions flowing, and encourage discussion. If you don’t keep it flowing people will leave or start side conversations.
- get ringers. Find great chatters and personally invite them every time. Welcome them. Thank them.