“So, in addition to creating schedules and checklists, we should train our supervisors on how to run meetings?” Phillip was becoming a believer.
“Not just how to run a meeting, but how to run an effective meeting,” I responded. Phillip shook his head. He didn’t have to be briefed on the difference between meetings that were important and meetings that were a waste of time.
At the same time, he was uncomfortable. “You know, we do a pretty good job of training people on the technical stuff that we do, how we make things and how we deliver our services, but we don’t even come close when you talk about training on how to run meetings.”
“I know. Interesting, isn’t it? One of the most important things that a supervisor does and your company doesn’t spend any time teaching the management skill of how to run an effective meeting.”
“Okay, I’ll bite. What do we need to do first?” asked Phillip.
“Tell you what. Meet me here tomorrow morning, same time. There are several different kinds of meetings. We will talk about the ones most important to you.” -TF
Another absolutely correct post…
Supervisors run all kinds of meetings — information, continuous improvement, safety talks etc. — they need to have good meeting management skills.
Send me an e mail at Bud@BudBilanich.com, and I’ll send you my rules for planning and conducting effective meetings.
Bud Bilanich
The Common Sense Guy
http://www.CommonSenseGuy.com
Hey, Bud,
Thanks for sharing your rules for effective meetings.
There are books and books on running effective meetings… And, I am always “up for” new ideas to add to our tools to be more reffective. My short version of do’s are bring sugar/choclate/fruit/protein snacks…have an agenda before hand and stick to the focus of the meeting. Respect all in attendance, be positive and move issues forward depending on the focus and what you want to accomplish in the meeting. Table issues that are better said for a differnt time… Follow through with action items and expect accountability. Keep it fun if possible and set a positive tone in the very beginning. (I like music to do that) 🙂