Unclear goals are one of the most essential shortcomings of meetings. If you don't know what you are actually trying to achieve, it is difficult to achieve in the short term. The initial time investment in preparing the meeting will definitely pay off.
Double also the time needed to select participants
Really thoroughly ask who must attend the meeting. For many people you regularly invite, an e-mail summary or a brief phone call would be sufficient. Calculate how many hours of productive work you are making your company lose when these people needlessly sit at your meetings.
Shorten the duration of the current meetings by half
You will most likely be surprised to learn that half the time is sufficient. You can chat about topics that are not related to the meeting another time.
Never start later
Late arrivals, even just by a few minutes, waste the time of you all. Make it clear that you will not wait for anyone and always start on schedule. You will gain the others' respect soon and everybody will think it twice to come late.
Try standing meetings
There are studies that confirm that meetings when people stand can bring the same quality decisions as traditional meetings but about one-third faster. These meetings may not always be practical but they are certainly worth a try.
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Article source Forbes.com - prestigious American business magazine and website