It is not rocket science, but how many work meetings end up going off the rails. You know the meetings, I mean. Everyone has the right intention to get something done, but you come away from the meeting frustrated, wondering what was achieved.
Everyone has tips and tricks on how to run a productive meeting. Here are a few of my wife's suggestions:
- Make sure the meeting has a clear purpose. If you don't know the purpose, don't start the meeting.
- Just like a Boy Scout, be prepared. It would be helpful to ensure that others in the meeting are also prepared.
- Let everyone speak. Everyone needs to come away from a meeting feeling that they have been heard.
- Stick to the topic. Don't let the meeting drift away from the purpose.
- Intervene if you see someone rambling on. This is often easier said than done.
- Wrap it up properly. Ensure you come out with an agreed summary of the meeting and the follow-up actions required.
- You need to have fewer meetings. Only attend meetings that you should.
Meetings don't have to feel like a waste of time, stay on purpose, stick to the topic, and you will get more done.
