Meetings. Does the word itself make you cringe? Of course, there are a variety of meetings out there – recreational group meetings, civic group meetings, informal social meetings, work meetings, and probably other types that I am not thinking of here. Some of these meetings can give us pleasure and a sense of purpose. Others probably seem like a way to just go through some motions. Is there a way to make meetings, especially the ones that seem pointless, more meaningful? Here are some additional questions that I have to address this topic.
First, do we ever question if the meeting is necessary at all? Are there really any items to discuss or address, or is the meeting simply being held because it has always been held at a certain time and place repeatedly? Could items be addressed by a quick email instead? Asking these simple questions could eliminate some meetings right off the bat.
If the meeting is found to be necessary, can it be scheduled for a shorter amount of time? Can it be held less frequently if there are no items to discuss? These questions can help to reduce the frequency and/or duration of meetings.
Next, how about the quality of the meeting? Is there an agenda to keep the discussion focused? Does each agenda item alot a specified amount of time for discussion and/or action? You might argue that if there is no agenda, you do not need to attend the meeting, but that decision up to you.
In the end, I challenge everyone to think about the meetings they attend. Does the meeting feel necessary to you? Does the meeting have a focus to it? Depending on your evaluation, can you decline going to the meeting? Perhaps you can save and enjoy some time by taking a closer look at the meetings you attend.