Have you ever felt discouraged or frustrated when a meeting doesn’t achieve the results you’re looking for?

Or worse: it heads wildly off-track and is a waste of time?

When we’re engulfed in work and back-to-back, it can be hard to revamp how we run our meetings.

But with just a few steps, you can run every meeting end to end—while meeting your objectives and staying on course.

Last week we talked about preparing for a meeting. This week, we’re talking about running the show.

Here’s My Savvy 10-Step Guide to Running a Successful Meeting

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]1) Set a clear objective[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]From the very first minute, be sure everyone is on the same page—and has their eyes set on the same goal. Don’t be afraid to get specific (i.e. “We’re here to revise this workflow” or “Today’s meeting is carved out for brainstorming ideas for our upcoming event”).[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]2) Begin on time—and stay on time[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Ensure your meeting starts promptly. It’s not only a time-saver, it gets people in the vibe of knowing “we’re here for business.” Stay on time by using your agenda and corresponding time estimates.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]3) “Re-rail” when things derail[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]If someone is dominating the conversation or bringing up an off-topic idea, be the moderator. Chime in saying, “Thank you for your contribution. We do need to focus on discussing X today or hearing X’s opinion as well.”[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]4) Limit technology[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Everything from phones to tablets to incoming email distracts people from the meeting and task at hand. Limit or ban technology while the clock is running.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]5) Utilise your agenda[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Follow along your agenda points with confidence. This ensures respect and a quality use of everyone’s time. If you don’t have an agenda template, download this month’s ‘The Perfect Meeting Agenda Template’.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]6) Loop in the silent[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Get a feel of the room but call on those who may be more shy to voice their opinion. Sometimes the quiet ones come up with the best ideas![/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]7) Stand for an even playing field[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Just because someone is new to the department or isn’t senior in rank doesn’t mean they don’t have brilliant thoughts. If people are made to feel like they’re not worthy of contributing, be vocal and ensure equality stands—no matter who is involved.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]8) Let all ideas be possible[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]While you want to keep things on track, you also want the free exchange of ideas. When people can openly share, you’re more likely to find an incredible way of doing something or solving a problem.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]9) Ensure actions are taken—and update the group later[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Have someone jot down the actions captured from the meeting, so you can refer to them later and move the needle on your objectives post-meeting.[/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″]10) End the meeting with gusto[/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″]Close the meeting by sharing an achievement—from the final discussion or an earlier moment in the meeting. Thank everyone for their time and ideas. This sets a positive tone for any following meetings, and makes people feel appreciated. Plus, if you followed these steps, you probably achieved something worth celebrating![/vc_column][/vc_row]

Any questions?

If you have questions on this topic or any others, feel free to reach me by email or set up a free one-on-one consultation session, or drop me a comment below.

Thanks for sharing!