How frequently are you in meetings that seem to go nowhere? If you’re anything like many of the managers and leaders I hear from, the answer is more frequently than you’d like. Seems we’re a bit challenged in our ability to manage meaningful meetings.
I wrote about this in my last post. Busy employees try to make the most of their time. So, when meetings are loosely run, drag on and get little done, the time-wasting alarms go off in every participant’s head.
Alternatively, efficient meetings are greatly appreciated and often favorably anticipated. In the organizations where I consult, I see the benefits of productive meetings: people are better prepared to do their jobs. Their motivation, attitude and productivity rise. But, when meetings are boring and wasteful, people feel depleted, frustrated and farther from their goals.
Manage Time
One of the most valuable aspects of an effective meeting is brevity. Keeping meetings short and sweet offers many benefits. For one, people can’t take much more than an hour without regretting the experience. When managed well, 30 minutes may suffice. A recent trend is the stand-up meeting: it motivates participants to wrap things up promptly.
Manage Focus
Small talk and rabbit trails are common, but your facilitating skills need to bring people back on track. Do this kindly, considerately and firmly. (Use humor appropriately, and keep the discussion moving toward its objectives.) Consider asking participants to set aside electronic devices that can distract the group. Of course, leading by example is the best way to convey these approaches.
Manage Participation
Another efficiency-related strategy is to get as much participation from the group as possible. Keep your people engaged by asking questions and requesting individual responses. The more diverse the feedback, the more thorough the discussion, and the better the resulting decisions will be. Balancing discussion with brevity is a master-facilitator skill.
What do you think? How do you manage meaningful meetings? I’d love to hear from you. You can call me at 561-582-6060, let’s talk. And as always, I can be reached here, or on LinkedIn.
