Oftentimes, attending meetings are inevitable. So whether it's an ordinary or business meeting, consider these things because meetings are a great place to impress the right people.
Here's a list of dos and don'ts for business meetings;
- Be punctual. Get there on time. You'll distract the group by coming late. Take work with you so you can use waiting time profitably.
- Be noticeable. Sit opposite the leader. You will get more involved and noticed.
- Be ready. Come prepared, read the agenda and anticipate the needs of the group and bring the appropriate data.
- Be participative. Participate and plan at least one specific contribution. Be candid, yet tactful.
- Don't talk too much. Don't monopolized discussions. If you feel you have to comment on every issue, you are probably talking too much.
- Be attentive. Listen to understand. Misunderstanding caused by a lack of listening is the great meeting time-waster.
- Be ethical. Don't whisper aside to your colleagues while someone else is talking, especially if that someone is your boss.
- Stick to the agenda. Don't use the meeting as a platform to air your views. If ever you feel the urge, just bite your lips.
- Build on others ideas. The boss will recognize and appreciate your value when you do. Don't change the focus prematurely.
- Be optimistic. Be positive about the group. A positive attitude about what the meeting can accomplish will translate into action.
- Challenge the group. Post “what if” questions. Get members to see new options.
- Criticize ideas, not people. Be harsh on ideas, soft on people. While you're cutting an idea down, lift a person up.
- Don't take advantage. Don't use the group as a substitute for direct discussions with individuals. Don't waste the group's time addressing an issue that can be resolved one-on-one. Don't embarrass anyone needlessly by airing dirty laundry in front of the group.
- Step into the chair when needed. Provide leadership at critical points without threatening the formal leader.
- Be honorable. Perform promised follow-up. If few people deliver on their promises to accomplish assigned tasks between meetings, you'll stand out by coming through.
