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Most of us dislike meetings. And we especially dislike those meetings that accomplish nothing. Think about how many times you've left a meeting and wondered, "What was that for? We decided nothing. We just talked for the last hour. What a waste of time!" And what's worse is that you know that this lack of decision means another meeting will be called again to discuss the exact same thing. Isn't that frustrating?
Well, there is one simple question that someone needs to have the courage to ask at the end of every meeting. As a matter of fact, the person(s) calling the meeting should ask this question BEFORE they plan the meeting, because this question determines whether a meeting is even necessary. The question that should be asked is:
WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?
This simple but powerful question demands that SOMETHING happen. This question causes ACTION to be taken. This question ensures that the meeting will PRODUCE a result.
If you are planning a business meeting and you don't see action steps coming out of the meeting, you should reconsider having the meeting. If all you are going to do is share information, perhaps there is a better medium.
There are two additional questions that will make this most important question even more valuable:
WHO IS ACCOUNTABLE FOR EACH STEP?
WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR RESULTS FROM THE NEXT STEPS?
Starting today, try asking these 3 questions before leaving any meeting you attend. I guarantee your meetings will be more useful and productive.
