Troubleshooting a Stagnant Meeting

Be ready to propel a meeting forward when it hits trouble spots. Here are three classic meeting problems and how to solve them:

• Problem: "We always peter out." 
  • Solution: End the meeting on a high note. If 17 minutes into the meeting, you reach the climax of the gathering, stop the meeting there. That way everyone walks out revved up – and more productive.
• Problem: "Everyone’s bored out of their minds." 
  • Solution: Make attendees laugh. Here’s a trick from Sheldon Arora, CEO of Esoftsolutions in Plano, Texas: The last person into the room at the monthly companywide meeting has to tell a joke. It loosens up the room and fills the seats on time.
• Problem: "No one retains a thing." 
  • Solution: Do a five-minute recap at the end. You want everyone to leave knowing exactly what they’re supposed to do. Clarify potential outcomes, outline next steps and make assignments.

─ Adapted from Escape From Meeting Hell, Patrick J. Sauer, Inc., www.inc.com

This newsletter provided compliments of
Percy Emtage & Associates

- - Helping Organizations Perform Effectively - -

For more information on how we can help you achieve success in your life and your business, contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We can help you and your employees multiply the value of your business.

Heather Percy, 
President