Why are Some Meetings a Waste of Time?
Why are some meetings a waste of time?
Many meetings are often a waste of time because:
- The meeting was held "out of habit".
- The meeting lacked a definite purpose.
- Too many people, or the wrong people, were invited to attend.
- There was no proper agenda.
- The meeting was badly chaired and went off-topic.
- The conversation was chaotic.
- The delegates were ill-prepared.
- The delegates' attitudes were negative.
- The decision was deferred again, and so the meeting achieved nothing of value.
- The cost of the meeting was more than its value.
Learn how to chair a successful meeting.
How to make meetings more efficient
In order to fix the problem that meetings are a waste of time, remember the following:
- Meetings should not be called out of habit.
- All meetings should be held in order to achieve a definite purpose.
- Only a minimum number should attend, and they should be the right people.
- There should be a written agenda.
- A competent chair person should run the meeting and keep things on track.
- The conversation should be ordered, systematised and kept on track, by the chairperson.
- The delegates should prepare themselves by finding, organising and bringing the information that is necessary to make the final decision.
- The delegates should strive to attend the meeting with their CAN-DO attitude switched on.
- Don't dither. Make the decision. Recognise that decisions must be made in the light of incomplete and uncertain knowledge.
- Ensure the value of the meeting outweighs its cost.
To calculate the hidden cost of your meetings, try this brilliant Cost of Meetings App.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Time Management
-
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management technique; the purpose of which is to increase work efficiency, maximise concentration and minimize mental fatigue.
Read Article > -
Good Time Management is Stress Management
How effective time management can reduce stress by prioritising tasks, avoiding procrastination, and focusing on what truly matters. Discover strategies for better productivity, stress relief, and achieving a balanced workload for a healthier mindset
Read Article > -
Time Management Apps to Enhance Productivity
Everyone wants to make maximum progress with the least amount of time and effort. We have created the best time management apps to help you prioritise, set goals and make decisions. These apps are FREE and will help enhance your productivity.
Read Article > -
The 80/20 Rule - Pareto Principle - Explained
The 80/20 Pareto rule originally stated that 80% (or more), of the wealth in any economy is owned by 20% (or less) of the population. Find out how to use this formula at work.
Read Article > -
How to Stop Procrastinating
The act of procrastinating means you are wasting valuable time, when you could be investing that time in doing something worthwhile or improving yourself. Use these simple strategies to overcome procrastination and take back control of your day.
Read Article >
Looking for Time Management Training?
If you're looking to develop your Time Management Skills, you may find this Time Management Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 7 days, London - Central, places available