This article by our Founder and CEO, Chris Pollinger as published by Inman News shares insights on the structure of a great meeting.
The Structure of a Great Meeting
Let’s do an autopsy on the structure of a great meeting. We’ve all spent time at pointless meetings, finding ourselves losing valuable time and feeling resentful, knowing that more pressing tasks await. In fact, it has become a contemporary cliché that many a meeting could easily have been replaced by a good memo. To stimulate your team, obtain your goals, and maintain your credibility, the first rule of a great meeting is to decide if it is truly necessary.
Before we look at the structure of a great meeting, ask yourself these questions:
- Do you just need questions answered, or perhaps an update on previously determined action items? If so, pick up the phone and discuss with the proper individuals.
- Are there difficult or sensitive issues? Meet one on one rather than airing challenging topics in a group setting.
- Is it a recurring meeting, with no news or updates? Be considerate of everyone’s time and cancel it.
Assuming you’ve cleared these hurdles and have determined that the meeting is necessary, consider the following as you move forward:
The Structure of a Great Meeting Tip 1 – Before the Meeting
Determine the purpose and structure of your meeting, including identifying your objective, who should attend, how much time is needed to cover your agenda, and what preparation is needed to ensure that the meeting runs smoothly. Prepare materials, if necessary. Ensure that the meeting space is comfortable and appropriate accommodations are provided.
Determine the outcomes you seek from the meeting and how to best achieve them. Are you there seeking or relaying information? Do you need to make a decision during or after the meeting, or are you there to lead your team to a decision? Is there any other goal you hope to accomplish?
Communicate your goals in advance! Assign a clear purpose to the meeting by developing a concise agenda and assigning each bullet point to the appropriate team member/participant. Send out the agenda and supporting materials in advance so that the group is properly prepared to listen and contribute. Set expectations for in-person, video, or phone attendance, and clearly communicate the context and framing for the meeting.
The Structure of a Great Meeting Tip 2 – During the Meeting
Start and finish on time, every time. Time is valuable!
Assign the task of taking notes to someone who is thorough and concise.
First things first – answer the question “Why are we here?”
Managing the discussion is paramount to running on time and efficiently. If you have requests of participants, set the proper tone by being specific and making the ask early. When the discussion veers off topic, redirect the conversation while acknowledging and scheduling appropriate attention to other matters, if necessary. If people are talking too long, courteously but firmly set limits for input. When you see attendees disconnecting, be sure to reengage them by acknowledging their interests and mindsets directly.
Stick to the agenda! Set goals, objectives and time frames for each bullet point, and immediately identify action points and accountability. Every participant should leave with a clear purpose and understanding of their takeaways.
Finally, when possible (and it’s always possible!), end early! Your guests/team will appreciate your consideration and will prioritize your future meetings, knowing that you can be trusted with their time.
The Structure of a Great Meeting Tip 3 – After the Meeting
Be sure to follow up with attendees and people who were absent, providing brief yet thorough notes that focus on, a.)decisions made and, b.) action items and their owners.
Assess the meeting according to the goals you set versus what was achieved. What worked? How can you improve? Consider your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of the participants.
Effective meeting leadership means having a purpose, sticking to your agenda, being courteous of everyone’s time, and assigning clear accountability for action items. Combine these characteristics and become the master of facilitating great meetings!
Want help with your next meeting? Contact us for a complementary powerpoint/keynote to set the tone.
A Parting Thought
We hope that the information provided is helpful in guiding you on your journey to building a thriving real estate business.
As luxury real estate consultants, coaches and advisors for Proptech, Fintech, Brands, Brokerages, Teams and Elite agents, we are confident that our resources, insights and strategies can help you achieve your goals.
Remember, success in the luxury real estate industry starts with knowledge and strategy, and we are here to provide you with both.
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