How can I tell which meetings are formal?
You must consider each meeting in its entirety to determine if it is formal. In reaching this determination you must bear in mind that the FLRA has indicated that if some of the following conditions are present the meeting is, in all likelihood, formal.
The management representative who holds the meeting is a first line supervisor or higher.
Other agency representatives besides the first line supervisor attend the meeting.
The meeting is held away from the work site or shop floor.
The meeting goes on for a relatively long period of time.
The meeting is scheduled in advance.
An agenda is established for the meeting.
The employees are required to attend.
The meeting is conducted according to a set of procedures; e.g., chairperson presides, minutes are taken, attendance is verified.
The meeting involves a discussion concerning changes in working conditions, personnel practices or conditions of employment.