Volume 5: 10 Rules for Effective Meetings

10 Rules for Effective Meetings

How often do you attend a meeting where you would rather be sitting in a dentist’s chair? When meetings are not effective, there is an enormous drain on people’s productivity. Here are some things to consider:

1. Purpose and ground rules should be clear to all
2. Have a clear, realistic and visible agenda with times assigned
3. Have all necessary resources available
4. Keep an accurate visible record
5. Stay focused on important issues
6. Monitor and control the time
7. Balance task and harmony (ensure participation by everyone)
8. Be “empathic” listeners
9. Do not speak for others
10. Develop a Clear Path Forward
    – Expectations realistic/clear
    – Time limits defined/understood
    – Evaluate/improve future meetings

 Your challenge: Utilize this in your next meeting. Ask participants how they felt about the meeting. Evaluate your meeting. What went well? What could be improved?