How do you feel when you are rushing to a meeting with sticky notes, and pieces of paper flying about, and you are looking for a pen that works! We know that this is NO way to be prepared to go into a meeting. When you are rushed, ill-prepared, and do not have the information you need on hand, the meeting will be a disaster of distress, frustration, and unmet expectations.
How can you be prepared so that the
above-mentioned situation is not what you are dealing with? Simply, be prepared –
get organized!
1. Schedule
time in the days preceding the meeting to read through all material sent.
2. Have
your agenda ready (printed/digital) and ensure you have advised the person
assigned to prepare the agenda; any items you want to have included for
discussion.
3.
Read
through any reports prior to the meeting and have your notes/questions ready.
4. Read
through the previous minutes, noting anything you are supposed to have
completed (and ensure it’s done).
5.
If
you are bringing items to the meeting for discussion, have your notes and
research collated.
6.
Have
your pen and paper ready, or your digital device (and ensure it is charged).
7.
Be
well hydrated and rested.
These are
some simple steps that you can take to help be prepared for an upcoming
meeting. Entering a meeting feeling calm
and confident, with the correct materials on hand, will assist you in
communicating through the discussions that will take place and working towards
amicable, achievable decisions.