Establish an end time in advance and end on time

Come prepared to contribute
Don't interrupt
Stay on point
Listen carefully
Eliminate distractions like phones and mobile devices
Use common language, such as letting people know that you "got it"
- When you tell someone that you "got it" after the point is first made, it not only saves time, but keeps things on track and reflects your understanding of the concept

Your company's mission statement has power. It describes your organization's purpose. When it becomes part of the common language of the organization, it can help you make solid business decisions. Use it to create ideas and validate the quality of ideas. When debating different options, use the mission statement to choose among them.
Define the purpose of every meeting, conference call, phone conversation and one-on-one meetings.
Start with the end in mind, knowing what you want to achieve before you start. A clear vision of what you want to achieve in the end will keep you moving towards the goal.
Before you organize a meeting, ask yourself: "Is a meeting the most efficient and effective forum to achieve the goal? Would other methods such as phone calls, emails, a teleconference or a memo work more efficiently instead? What would happen if the meeting did not occur?"
Ask yourself well in advance: "What do I want to accomplish? What do I need from the participants? What information do I want to share with them? What can I do to add value for the participants? How will the meeting's effectiveness be measured?"

In inviting participants, think about the functions needed to accomplish the goal before you think about the individuals. Invite only those critical to the goal. They and the others not invited will thank you once common practice establishes that only essential personnel attend each meeting. Others may be briefed afterwards as necessary.

Instant Insights /

Making the Most of Meetings: Guest Opinion

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