How to Plan a Seamless Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Your Annual General Meeting is more than a compliance requirement. It is an opportunity to demonstrate transparency, engage stakeholders, and strengthen trust in your organisation. Whether you are hosting an in-person, virtual, or hybrid AGM, careful planning is essential to ensure everything runs seamlessly. 

Here is your step-by-step guide to planning a successful AGM. 

A grand, ornate auditorium with red seats faces a large screen displaying an image and the text Westfield Hurstville. Colorful lights illuminate the stage, high ceilings, and arched windows.

Why AGMs Matter

AGMs are a legal obligation for most companies, but they also serve a strategic purpose. They allow you to:

  • Present financial performance and future plans
  • Engage shareholders and answer questions
  • Reinforce your organisation’s credibility and governance standards

Step 1: Define Objectives and Agenda

Start by clarifying the purpose of your AGM. Beyond compliance, what do you want to achieve? Common objectives include:

  • Sharing company performance and strategy
  • Electing board members
  • Approving key resolutions

Draft a clear agenda and circulate it early so stakeholders know what to expect.

Step 2: Choose the Right Format

Decide whether your AGM will be:

  • In-person for traditional engagement
  • Virtual for convenience and cost-efficiency
  • Hybrid to combine both and maximise attendance

Hybrid AGMs are increasingly popular as they offer flexibility and inclusivity.

Step 3: Secure the Venue and Technology

If hosting in person, choose a venue that reflects your brand and accommodates your expected attendance. For virtual or hybrid AGMs, invest in reliable streaming technology and interactive tools for voting and Q&A.

Pro Tip: Test all AV equipment and internet connections well before the event.

Step 4: Prepare Documentation and Compliance Requirements

Ensure all statutory documents are ready and distributed within the required notice period. This typically includes:

  • Financial statements
  • Director and auditor reports
  • Proxy forms and voting instructions

Check your local regulations for specific timelines and requirements.

Step 5: Engage Stakeholders Before and During the AGM

Build anticipation and encourage participation by:

  • Sending reminders and easy-to-follow joining instructions
  • Providing clear guidance on how to vote or submit questions
  • Using live polls and moderated Q&A during the meeting

Step 6: Plan for Accessibility and Inclusivity

Make sure your AGM is accessible to all stakeholders:

  • Offer closed captions for virtual attendees
  • Provide translations if required
  • Ensure the venue is physically accessible

Step 7: Post-AGM Follow-Up

After the meeting:

  • Share a summary of key decisions and outcomes
  • Provide access to the recording for those who could not attend
  • Gather feedback to improve future AGMs

Sample AGM Planning Timeline

Task Timeline
Define objectives and agenda   8–10 weeks before AGM 
Secure venue and technology   6–8 weeks before AGM 
Distribute statutory notices   3–4 weeks before AGM 
Test AV and rehearse   1 week before AGM 
Post-event reporting   Within 1–2 weeks after 

Ready to Deliver a Seamless AGM? 

At Encore, we specialise in producing AGMs that are compliant, engaging, and stress-free. From AV and streaming to interactive tools and technical support, our team ensures your meeting runs flawlessly.