Ever run a meeting where you end up waiting for everyone to arrive, then because people are late someone decides to go get a cup of tea, visit the bathroom, check an email - calling out as they rush out “it’s okay, I’ll be quick I promise!”
These situations can be extremely frustrating especially when you’ve been super clear about what time the meeting starts.
Here is a quick tip to cut through all this aggravating activity: Start your meeting on time – WHAT??
But not everyone is there, people are still wandering in, and someone is on their phone and so on…
Why start the meeting at the pre-organised time? Because it is YOUR meeting! And believe or not, it really is that simple.
How? If you have properly arranged your meeting by sorting out all the necessary details, there will be no confusion. And, if there is any specific information that people need to bring along, you will have clearly communicated this in advance.
So, what happens when you start your meeting right on the allotted time? The people who have made the effort to be there on time see leadership in action.
People who are late, or unprepared – get put on the spot.
How? Because you have taken control of your meeting.
Feel free to get in touch if this is something you are struggling with. It may take a few more meetings before the late comers get the message.
Keep an eye out for my next tip – how to set up a group agreement.
A group agreement is a great way to set your boundaries for your meetings! If you're having issues with your meetings, then contact me and we can make a time to talk.