Job Description of a Parliamentarian

Rules

• Parliamentarians are responsible for making sure that an organization's board follows the correct procedures. They basically serve as advisers on the well-known Robert's Rules of Order process in board meetings, according to the Village Card Club in Arizona. Parliamentarians also usually must review and study the bylaws of an organization. These bylaws are specific rules by which a unit is governed. Parliamentarians might help to create or revise bylaws as well. They additionally must maintain a current copy of the bylaws as well as Robert's Rules of Order, according to Central Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization in Illinois.
  
  

Discussions and Votes

• Parliamentarians might help the board president prepare for a meeting. They additionally can count ballots cast during a vote by board members and report the number of yes and no votes to the board president. Their duties include keeping track of those wishing to speak, amendments, motions and voting as well. Parliamentarians should serve as an impartial adviser, according to Nancy Sylvester, a professional registered parliamentarian.
  
  

Order

• Parliamentarians also must handle procedure questions or problems that come up during a meeting, which might include maintaining order. Parliamentarians ensure no dialogue takes place between board members and make sure meeting visitors are privy to the procedures that apply to them. The parliamentarian can deem a board member out of order if he speaks when another individual has the floor. Parliamentarians might train board members on parliamentarian procedures and hold workshops as well. They also might supervise credentials and elections, according to parliamentary consultant Jim Slaughter.
  
  

Skills

• Parliamentarians must have strong public speaking skills and good verbal communications skills. These individuals also must have a strong understanding of Robert's Rules of Order and be able to explain this information to other people. They must have strong training skills, be organized and be detail-oriented. Parliamentarians also must have good leadership skills; be firm, confident and outspoken during potentially contentious meetings; be on time to regular or special meetings; and remain calm under pressure.
  
  

Certification

• Professional parliamentarians can be certified by two non-profit organizations: the American Institute of Parliamentarians and the National Association of Parliamentarians. Both organizations have various classifications of memberships ranging from beginners to those with the highest levels of proficiency in this field. This certification requires study, training and experience along with maintaining continuing education and experience standards.