Keys to Success

Effective meetings are an important part of successful organizations, yet how often have you heard comments such as these:

"I hate these meetings."
"Meetings are a boring waste of time."
"We never get anything done in meetings."

These and similar comments are heard in organizations throughout the nation. Yet effective retreats, off-sites and meetings are an important part of successful organizations. Taking key people away from their duties is expensive and time consuming, so ensuring that the meeting is successful is vital.

There are three keys to having an effective meeting and they all rest with the facilitator, the person running the meeting: thorough preparation, excellent facilitation, and timely follow-up. A good facilitator will be a catalyst for action by keeping things moving in the direction of the stated goals, making sure that everyone has an opportunity to participate, and managing those who want to monopolize or politicize the process. A facilitator who is knowledgeable and competent in group process serves as a conduit for sound decision making.

Our approach to preparation includes working with group leaders on what key outcomes are desired, contacting key individuals in advance to ensure the meeting or retreat is structured properly, and preparing and distributing an agenda with materials before the meeting.

Follow-up can include brief, useful meeting notes with assignments and due dates. It may also involve follow-up meetings to ensure that the group stays on track and achieves their goals.

More Information About Meeting Facilitation

Meeting Agreements: "Ground Rules"
Productive Behaviors in Meetings
A Start-up Kit for Teams... Order Now!
Our Favorite Quotes About Meetings and Retreats
Retreats, Yes or No?

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