Learn essential pre-meeting strategies including agenda creation, setting expectations, and choosing the right participants to ensure productive meetings

What gets measured, gets managed. But is that always a good thing? Wilson’s Law tells us: “We tend to prioritize what we can measure over what truly matters.” It’s a quiet force behind the way we s…

The article addresses the growing concern over inefficient one-on-one meetings in the workplace, highlighting how they often waste time and resources. It cites a 2024 report by Fellow, which states that Canadian employees spend nearly 20% of their workweek in meetings, while managers spend over 35%. A 2018 Robert Half study found that 25% of meeting time is typically wasted, with 58% of respondents citing unnecessary meetings as a key issue. The piece argues that many meetings lack clear purpose, with leaders often extending sessions by asking for "anything else" after discussions conclude. Companies like Shopify, Aurora, and Basecamp have implemented strict meeting policies, limiting group sizes and banning standing meetings. The financial cost of these meetings is also emphasized, with a weekly one-hour meeting costing $664 for a single employee and $3,984 for six direct reports. The author recommends four steps to improve meeting efficiency: defining a clear purpose, reducing frequency and duration, preparing in advance, and taking control of the meeting’s direction. The article concludes by urging organizations to prioritize meaningful interactions over time-wasting rituals.

Council establishes three-minute time limit for public comments to enhance meeting efficiency.

City leaders engage in Robert's Rules training to enhance collaboration and meeting efficiency.

Board discusses second and fourth Tuesday meetings for efficient scheduling and hiring approvals.

Lildebridge team tests lapel mic and audio system ahead of presentations.

Commissioners discuss shifting meetings to Mondays and establishing Wednesday deadlines for agenda items.

Commission members suggest adopting Martha's Rules to simplify meeting procedures and improve efficiency

Council members unanimously vote to adjourn out of executive session.

Council enacts rule to turn off electronic devices during all official meetings.

The board approves a deductive change order and allocates funds for technology improvements.

Members adjust agenda due to anticipated lengthy executive session discussions.

Councilor Devine proposes four-minute speaking limit to enhance meeting efficiency and punctuality

Board introduces new Deputy Director Rebecca Harbidge during July 7 meeting in Bozeman.

Council members support revised language for appropriate electronic device usage during meetings.

Commissioners agree to maintain three-minute speaking limits, revisiting the issue in three months.

Supervisors approve consent agenda in a one-minute meeting while honoring Texas disaster victims

Committee moves forward with March agenda without addressing missing meeting minutes.

Council considers rules change to establish a vice president role for improved efficiency