Make Meetings Work

Establishing simple meeting “Rules of the Road” is the best way to make meetings effective.

Establishing a clear set of operational guidelines or rules for meetings allows the setting of common expectations for all participants.  Deviations are likely to occur and even be required.  The fact that a deviation occurs signifies that a standard is present (and is being deviated from).  Acknowledging it provides the opportunity for all participants to understand that an exception is being made.  The rules are nothing more than guidelines to set the standard for interaction and avoid innocent misconceptions.