As I prepared my materials to train some clients to run more effective meetings I came across some very interesting tips. Here is one that I would like to share with you:
Schedule your meeting to start at an unusual time – e.g. 10:07 A.M. How many 10:00AM meetings ever really start on time anyway? Very few. So, if the reality is that your meetings start 6 or 7 minutes after the scheduled time, there is usually a reason:
The previous meeting ended at 10:00AM and people have to stop for a break prior to the start of the scheduled 10:00AM meeting.
Every meeting is scheduled to start on the hour or the half-hour and no meeting ever starts on-time. So, make YOUR meeting stand out… and start on-time!
If you want your meetings to start (and end) on-time you have to impose discipline – and show your colleagues that your meeting is real business! Trust me on this – if you are firm in starting your meeting on-time, people will quickly get the message.
Instead of just closing the door and starting the meeting. I suggest that you take it one step further:
Stand next to the door with your back to the door to prevent the stragglers from entering. You might even place your hand on the door knob to prevent them from entering. That sends a signal!
Or… you could take a cue from the “theater” or a “Concert Hall” and place a sign on the meeting door: “Meeting in progress. Latecomers will be seated at the first break in order to not disturb the meeting.”
Try one of these tips. And let our readers know how they worked for you. If you want to learn more about running an effective meeting check out the Effective Meetings website. Great articles, and even a free newsletter!
Speak Your Mind