AdvantEdge Workspaces Blog

Have you ever thought about how meetings became such a dreaded part of one’s day? When did collaborating with coworkers go so awry? Meetings have lost touch with the modern workplace. So often, people leave unsatisfied or thinking “why couldn’t this have been an email?” Here are four ways to build a better meeting and ensure that people leave feeling productive and empowered.

1. Check the Guest List

Who attends a meeting is just as important as what is discussed. Too many people can disturb effective decision making and discussion. Jeff Bezos has mentioned he has a “two pizza rule”- meaning that if you need to order two pizzas to feed everyone, your meeting is too big. Abide by the rule and see how people feel more comfortable speaking up and coming to resolutions.

2. Remove the Table

The classic boardroom meeting table comes attached to a series of connotations about behavior and roles that do not always translate to the 21st-century workspace. Ditch the table all together a try a more relaxed environment, such as a couch area. If the meeting does not require computers, try convening in the kitchen for five minutes or going for a walk. People will be more focused without electronics and you’ll get to the point of the meeting quicker.

3. Use Technology

How many times has your meeting been delayed by a missing aux cord, or failed video-conferencing? Technological issues have the power to derail an entire meeting. Chose a meeting space outfitted with the latest tools for a tech-savvy meeting. Knowing that all the cords and software you need are provided ahead of time keeps meetings running smoothly.

4. Reinvent the Agenda

Do not be afraid to throw the common agenda out the door. Agendas tend to promote the status quo and be a place-holder. The Wall Street Journal urges one to “consider a pre-mortem—that is, envision how the meeting could go wrong and devise a strategy to prevent it.” After that is complete, assign items to team members. Taking ownership of different parts of the meeting helps keep people engaged.

We can all get to the point where meetings aren’t groan-inducing but rather productive and useful parts of our day. At AdvantEdge Workspaces, we work to build better meetings for our clients. With modern spaces, the latest technology, and the support of our client services coordinators, your meeting is destined for success. Come check out our variety of spaces today and together we can build a better meeting experience.