Books How to Make Meetings Not Suck: Tips and Tools to Run Effective Meetings  by Jonathan Vehar (Author), Cathi Brese Doebler (Author)

Key Principles for Effective Meetings

1. Clear Agenda and Preparation

Creating a structured agenda well in advance is crucial. It should outline topics, time allocation, and meeting goals, allowing participants to prepare properly. Sharing the agenda beforehand ensures everyone is aligned and ready to contribute meaningfully.​

2. Starting on Time and Staying Focused

Punctuality is emphasized, with advice to begin meetings promptly and avoid wasting time on late arrivals. Meetings should also stick to the agenda and avoid unnecessary tangents, maintaining a no-waffle zone to keep discussions concise and purposeful.​

3. Role Assignment and Engagement

Assign specific roles such as facilitator and note-taker to streamline the process. Breaking larger meetings into smaller groups can foster deeper engagement and facilitate better idea sharing.​

4. Thoughtful Use of Visual Aids

Using visual tools like slides and diagrams can clarify complex points and boost understanding, especially for visual learners.