Meeting Mayhem

We have all experienced meetings that cause us to silently roll our eyes.  Below are fourteen meeting types that may be getting in the way of creating a cohesive, results-driven team.

1.  The Too Busy…  “I’m too busy to prepare” which translates into “My time is more valuable than yours.”
2.  The Ego Driven…  “I haven’t heard myself talk enough today. Doesn’t the sound of my voice motivate you?”
3.  The Read My Mind…  No purpose, no agenda, no preparation…no wonder!
4.  The Accountawho…  When there is no accountability to complete tasks.  Leading to #5…
5.  The Re-Do…  Same, same as the last week…and the week before too.
6.  The Derailed…  A team member or superior comes in and hijacks meeting time.  Note…this would be more difficult to do if there was a clear purpose/agenda.
7.  The I already determined the solution meeting…  Way to build team engagement (not really).
8.  The Quick…  “This won’t take long.”  This phrase is a curse which typically leads to some of the longest and most painful meetings.
9.  The Immediate…  Even when it’s not.  In other words, summoning people for urgent meetings on non-urgent topics.
10.  The Overtime…  Always going past the stated end time thereby disrespecting the time and priorities of others.
11.  The Late Is Great…  “Come in anytime you want.  Never mind that we cover the highest priorities first.  I’ll gladly catch you up while those who arrived on time get penalized.”
12.  The Techno Glitch…  Okay…many times these are unavoidable and beyond our control.  Consider having an old fashioned conference line back-up when video, web, computer equipment lets you down.  If nothing else, apologize and re-schedule the meeting.  Trust us…we understand and would prefer having the hour back in our day to complete work rather than watch your frustration grow.
13.  The Squeaky Wheel…  Disproportionate floor time for THAT team member.  Enough said.
14.  The Whole Enchilada…  Taking the entire meeting time even when we could have easily finished early.

There is no doubt that leading team meetings requires a dynamic skill set.  In fact, team meetings, and the preparation that goes into them, are some of the best investments that a leader can make.  Group communications provide a multitude of opportunity to transfer information, complete work, discuss topics, brainstorm ideas, problem solve, make decisions, offer support, set the tone, re-focus, develop team members and save time.  Unfortunately, they also have a reputation for being immense time and talent wasters when not done well.

 Help your team stand out by dedicating some time to enhance meeting effectiveness.

 Forward Moving Tips:

– Realize that there is a connection between team meetings and team functionality.
– Take time to reflect on the meetings you lead to determine how they could be more effective. Note:  Asking team members for feedback can be impactful.  Only do so when you are willing to act on their suggestions.
– To increase success and sustainability, focus on improving one element at a time.  i.e. Sending agendas in advance, ending on time, drawing out participation from everyone, clarifying expectations, holding people accountable, etc.
– Tell the team what you are working to improve.  Chances are that they will help you get there more quickly.
– Notice how the changes are impacting team performance.  Excellent!

What is one adjustment you will make to improve the effectiveness of your meetings? (Comment Below)

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