10 Simple Ways to Have a More Productive Meeting

​Many moons ago my Tuesdays were packed with meetings, it started at 8:30 and my last one ended up at 16:00. At the end of the day, I felt extremely overwhelmed.
Each meeting meant more admin, so I ended up on Wednesday’s trying to complete all my Tuesday’s meeting To Do lists. Two days lost, only 3 left.
I even sat in a meeting, trying to figure out how much each meeting cost the company. You know, 6 people in the meeting times the amount they get paid per hour. Yes, it was a guess, but still it ended up in a massive amount.
Time is valuable! As all ACHIEVERS (StrengthsFinder) will understand
There are no wins in an unproductive company. 

So here are 10 quick tips on how to ensure your meeting are productive

1.What’s your goal?
The most effective meeting has a goal, you can save 15 min per meeting if each one receives an agenda. It keeps everyone on track. You can even share any documentation beforehand.
 
2.Be Exclusive
Very politely ask if you really need to be in the meeting.
Only invite essential personnel, and you’ll find things will stay on track
 
3.Time – 22 min
I loved this idea from Brain Scudamore (Forbes)
If you have a 30-min meeting, we attend to fill it up even if we are finished.
Next time, request a 22-min meeting, you’ll be able to get all done in 22 min as in the standard 30 min meeting.
 
4.Buffer Time
Back-to-back meetings seems like a good idea. Just make sure you leave a 5-min break in-between if you need to use the restroom, coffee refill or walking to the next boardroom.
If you’re going to be late, let people know before hand, suggest a new time 11:10.
No one wants to wait for you, you are spending their time.
 
5.Ditch PowerPoint
Jeff Bezos from Amazon, banned PowerPoint outright.
Visuals is a great tool! We remember in pictures. Keep your slides simple, they moment you start reading from a slide, you are losing your audience.
 
6.Change of Scenery
A boardroom is more sensible for a group meeting, but why don’t you change your boardroom for a change. New environment leads to creativity.
If you have a one-on-one meeting, try a walk-and-talk, it stimulates the mind and gives you more privacy if you work in an open office. Even Steve Jobs’ preferred this method of conversation.
 
7.Some Entertainment
Yes, I said it. “Icebreaker”
A 5-min team-building activity can break up a dull topic, or give a fun and relaxing start for a meeting. Even a small surprise during the meeting. Two weeks ago I visited a team, who had Magnum Ice Creams for our break. We were all stoked for our next session.
Even if you are extremely professional, remember we are all still human.  
 
8.Unplug your Laptops
If you’ve got half an eye on your email, you can’t be fully present. Studies have found that students who use laptops have a harder time remembering what they learn or are less to understand complex ideas.
Unless you are taking minutes or absolutely need your computer, turn it off.
 
9. Face-to-Face
A study revealed that 65% of employees regularly do other work while a conference call is happening. A good meeting is about connecting minds an idea. Face-to-face is not always possible, but there’s really no substitute for face time.
 
10.Lead with Purpose
Great meetings happen with great leaders. This might be daunting, but definitely possible. Start one tip at a time.
Run an efficient, effective and entertaining meeting, your team will follow. Your meetings may start to be the best part of your workday.
 
Source: Article originally published on Forbes