| |
What to Ask When You're Invited to a Meeting
By Steve Kaye
Here are five questions that you must ask before agreeing to attend a meeting.
1) Where is the agenda? A meeting without an agenda is like a journey without a map; it will always waste your time. Once you have the agenda, make sure that it consists of more than a list of words because this is almost useless. The agenda for an effective meeting will provide a complete description of how the meeting will proceed.
2) What is the goal? Is the chair seeking an agreement, a solution, or a plan? Knowing the goal gives you head start on participating effectively. Be cautious of meetings that are held just "to talk about something," because this type of meeting seldom accomplishes anything.
3) What is my role? Make sure that your participation adds value to the meeting. Avoid meetings where you have a superficial role, such as to find out what’s happening. In that case, ask for the minutes. If you’re needed to work on only part of the agenda, ask if you can attend only that part of the meeting.
4) How should I prepare? Make sure that you know about any research, readings, or surveys required to participate. Ask about the expectations for the other participants because this could influence your preparation. Attend only if you can prepare adequately or suggest another time for the meeting.
5) What should I bring? Should you bring a laptop? Will you be asked to give a presentation? Should you bring reports, data, or other information? Make sure that you have enough time to obtain the tools and materials needed for effective participation.
About the Author
IAF Certified Professional Facilitator and author Steve Kaye helps groups of people hold effective meetings. His innovative workshops have informed and inspired people nationwide. His facilitation produces results that people will support. Sign up for his free newsletter at http://www.stevekaye.com. Call 714-528-1300 or visit his web site for over 100 pages of valuable ideas.
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/2032.html
| If you wish to add the above article to your website or newsletters then please include the "Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/2032.html" as shown above and make it hyperlinked. |
| Some other articles by Steve Kaye | How to Select a Meeting Facilitator
Meeting facilitation is a complex activity. Thus, you want to make sure that you engage someone who knows how to help you ...
Why Olivia Refuses to Attend Meetings
Olivia Felini is a wonderful cat. She will do almost anything, except go to meetings. Here's why.
1) No one asks her to participate.
Olivia always comes prepared to be part ...
How Bad Can a Meeting Be?
There are the winning entries from a bad meeting contest (condensed and sanitized to protect the participants)
1) Short, Expensive, and ...
More Than One Type of Goal Leads to Success
Most people set goals. But they often set only one type of goal, and in so doing they set themselves up for failure.
Here is the complete tool kit. Use it ...
The Secret to Effective Leadership
Treating people with respect wins trust and develops lasting relationships. Here's what to do.
1) Be on time. In fact, arrive ...
How to Survive in a Crazy World
Everything seems to go faster, leaving everyone feeling overworked, overloaded, and overwhelmed. Here's how to survive.
1) Know Your Purpose.
Know your vision, your goals, and your plans because these help you set ...
|
|
| |
|
|
|
