I am referencing a great book called "Boring Meetings Suck" by John Petz in which the author outlines something that I know not many of us do when preparing for attending a meeting.
Too often, we just go. We go to meetings we have been invited to attend.
But how often do you ask the meeting organizer why you were invited to attend?
Most meetings are informational and could be handled by a memo or an email. Most meetings are generally setup to where the speaker shares information with an audience and checks for understanding. Very few actually ask for input from those around the table.
As Jon explains in his book, we are usually asked to attend a meeting as a participant. So why not participate more in the development of the meeting?
Here's a simple implementation to try out where you work. The next time you are requested to attend a meeting, ask the meeting host why you are being asked to attend?
Ask the person who is hosting to explain what it is they are hoping you will contribute during the meeting.
If the answer is that it is informational, simply state that you would prefer an email or memo.
Our time is valuable. And if a meeting is no longer participatory and is simply information sharing, it is better to request a copy of a memo in order to save time to be doing more active work.
Are you willing to try this in your meetings? Where would be some difficult areas where this request would seem rude or inappropriate?
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