Is it appropriate to address the presiding officer by name in a small meeting?

In parliamentary procedure, addressing the presiding officer by their title rather than by name is the standard practice, particularly in formal settings. This maintains a level of professionalism and respect appropriate for the meeting context. While familiarity can be common in small meetings, adhering to traditional protocol helps preserve order and structure.

Addressing the presiding officer by title fosters an atmosphere of authority and underscores the role they play in facilitating the meeting. This helps participants focus on the agenda and the matters at hand, rather than on personal relationships. In some organizations, established rules may outline the appropriate ways to address leadership to further enforce this practice. While it may feel accommodating or friendly to use a name, it could inadvertently detract from the formality and decorum expected in such settings.