Managers and team leaders may often find themselves in the middle of a meeting, feeling as though they spend more time talking than doing – what is the secret to finding the right balance?
At some point or another, we have all had a boss that loves to hold a meeting, going over the same points over and over again with very little productivity actually made. On the flip side, not taking the time to sit around the table and discuss any issues and possibilities is arguably more detrimental to the development of the business.
As an entrepreneur heading up a start-up business, it is important to manage time as efficiently and effectively as possible. Time is money and, although it is nice to look at graphs pointing in the right direction, it is only when action is taken that results are achieved.
Make a Plan of Action
Many businesses stick to a quarterly meeting schedule, where they review the result of the previous three months and take stock of where the business is in accordance with their annual target. Members of staff, who may be responsible for heading up their own individual teams, come together and share ideas and discuss where improvements can be made.
The objective of a successful meeting is for all involved to become up to speed with the results of the business and to have clear action points to address and a focus over the next quarter. It is also up to team leaders to have trust in their employees. Rather than prying over their shoulder as this not only suggests an element of distrust, but takes managers away from their own daily tasks.
Go Offsite
When it comes to corporate events such as major meetings, or team building events, it can be beneficial to work in a change of setting, as opposed to working inside the same four walls. Mixing things up a bit can also encourage creativity in the group, presenting new ideas that may not have been otherwise voiced.
Team building exercises are just as important as meetings, as this helps teams and colleagues to work better together. Every six months, hiring out a party room at a venueor going out to a restaurant and bringing everyone together for corporate events will be a day or evening well spent in the long run.
Hold Discussions
There is a major difference between holding a meeting and holding a discussion. A discussion is an informal way of teams voicing any concerns, or even bringing light on any successes – thus presenting an opportunity to give out praise.
A discussion also shows members of staff that leaders are interested in their employees on a regular basis, rather than simply looking at numbers of a spreadsheet. Holding regular, informal discussions will help staff to feel more valued and focused on achieving their individual targets. These will help for leaders to remain updated on the status of their team, without having to book a meeting or ask for a report to be filled out, which can be time consuming.
Be Open and Honest
Lastly, one of the most important factors of finding the right balance when it comes to meetings is for everyone to be open and honest with each other. It is no use sitting around a table and going through action points if what is being said is not being completely honest, regardless of how critical it may be.
Meetings are the time for constructive criticism where needed. If your team is not capable of giving and receiving this, then the time spent in the meeting will be for nothing.
By refining the time spent in meeting rooms, and ensuring that open and honest discussions are held, this will help your business to spend more time walking and less time talking.
About Carson Derrow
