5 Reasons Why Meetings Matter

In the fast-paced world of deadlines, emails and never ending to do lists, meetings often get a bad rap.  They are often viewed as time consuming interruptions that suck our energy and prevent us from getting the job done.  Some of us endure them with a heavy sigh and actively participate, others quietly multitask in the background not really paying attention.

Over the last few months, I have had many conversations about meetings, and it is very clear that meetings are problematic. While the Covid-19 pandemic triggered a revolution in how we work, many organisations are still struggling to adapt to remote/hybrid working and get the benefits from these new ways of working.  As the ‘new norm’ becomes ‘the norm’ it is a great time to reflect on how we are spending our time at work in meetings.  

What if instead of tolerating an excessive number of unproductive meetings, we eliminate unnecessary meetings and improved the ones left in the diary so that they are productive and enjoyable.

What if we invested in meetings so that they become an essential and valuable part of our work day?

What would happen if meetings became a source of inspiration and a mechanism to support people to do their best work?

To start flipping the narrative on meetings, here are 5 reasons why meetings matter:

1.     Building Bridges: Human Connection  

Meetings play an important part in building relationships at work and feeling connected to the overall mission of the organisation. As modern life becomes increasingly dominated by self-service, digital communications and social media, meetings can serve as a bridge for human connection.

2.     The Collaborative Symphony: Benefits of Working Together

Meetings have the potential to transform a group of individuals into a unified force, delivering outcomes that will make the organisation successful.  Imagine a workplace where every team member contributes their expertise, creativity, and insights to a collective masterpiece. Teams work harmoniously together through open dialogue and sharing ideas.

 3.     Inclusivity in Action:  Every Voice Matters

With skilful facilitation, meetings have the potential to be the stage where inclusivity shines at its brightest. By actively seeking a diverse range of perspectives and ensuring every voice is heard, meetings become a catalyst for change.  When individuals of different backgrounds and experiences come together, the richness of ideas expand. When meetings are inclusive by design, it is possible to create a workplace culture that truly values everyone’s unique contributions.

4.     Wellbeing Warriors:  Supporting Wellbeing and Mental Health  

In the hustle and bustle of professional life, our health and wellbeing often take a back seat. Meetings, when crafted with intention can support our wellbeing.  By being mindful of taking regular breaks, how we conduct ourselves in meetings and fostering an atmosphere of support, meetings can become spaces for work and rejuvenation.     

 5.     The Ripple Effect:  The Value of Meetings Beyond the Meeting Room

The impact of meetings extends far behind the confines of the meeting room (physical or online). When individuals feel connected, valued, and supported, this positivity has a ripple effect across the organisation and outside the workplace.   Relationships improve, productivity increases, creativity flourishes, customers are satisfied, and innovation flows more naturally.       

If you would like support to do meetings differently this year, improve how your team collaborates and/or shift the dial on the meeting culture in your organisation, contact us to see how we can help.