Time spent together.
WHAT A MEETING NEEDS
A purpose The right people An agenda circulated beforehand A defined length Someone leading
WHAT TO ASK BEFORE CALLING ONE
Could this be resolved in writing?
WHY
Most meetings could be, and are held from habit.
WHAT TO CIRCULATE BEFOREHAND
The agenda, and anything to be read.
WHY
So the meeting discusses rather than informs.
WHAT TO DO AS THE LEADER
Start on time Keep to the agenda Ensure everyone contributes Close with decisions and actions
WHAT TO DO AS AN ATTENDEE
Read what was circulated Arrive prepared Contribute Note your own actions
WHAT TO RECORD
Decisions, actions, owners and dates.
Not a transcript.
WHAT TO CIRCULATE AFTERWARDS
Those, promptly.
WHY
A meeting without recorded actions produces nothing.
WHAT TO DECLINE
Meetings where you have no contribution to make.
WHAT TO PROPOSE INSTEAD
A written update.
