The physical setting of the meeting reflects this worshipful atmosphere. Where possible, the members of the meeting sit in a semi-circle facing the clerk. The clerk is not in any sense a minister or priest but is there to help the meeting to articulate its decision in the form of an acceptable minute. The meeting begins with silence. When the clerk judges the time is right, he or she summarises the agenda before the meeting, provides any necessary background information, and lays the first item before the meeting.
People rise to speak, one at a time.
Each item concludes with the agreeing of a minute of the meeting's decision. When the business is complete there is another period of silence. The meeting is formally concluded with a handshake. At business meetings Friends tend to adopt certain customs or modes of behaviour. The following are perhaps the most important in shaping the form and atmosphere of a business meeting although not all will be present in every business meeting.