WhoWhatWhenHow

Even if you’ve never taken any of the advice from my previous blogs, grab hold of this one. This can really help improve your meetings. Easily and Forever.

First, have you ever attended a meeting where people are saying things like, “at the last meeting didn’t someone say they were definitely going to finish that project by some deadline soon?”. Who was going to do it? What was that project, specifcally? When was it due? It’s so frustrating.

Instead, follow these FOUR RULES FOR MEETINGS THAT WORK. Post them all over in offices and conference rooms. Make them your mission. Get some t-shirts printed. But pledge to adopt these magical rules.

1. WHO
2. WHAT
3. WHEN
4. HOW

Yes, it is this simple. And you don’t even need them explained (except #4 – just a little). The hard part is actually following them, of course. Actually adopting the rules and using them consistently. Posting the rules will help keep awareness high and aim everyone toward the same outcome. Just do it.

Rule #4 reveals whether assistance is needed to generate some fresh ideas. And whether the person really knows how to do the project. And confirms that she has all the tools, help or resources needed. Sometimes you have to dig deeper and push a little on HOW. Or dig in privately so someone can admit that something is needed and not feel any embarrassment.

The final essential step – and it’s absolutely essential - is a meeting summary in an ACTION LIST format. Pick a note-taker, worship his or her note-taking skills and have the ACTION LIST emailed to all attendees ASAP. The action list will reflect who, what, when and how.

Then, all manner of terrific stuff happens. Everyone knows exactly what is being done, who is doing it and when it will be done. They know whether more info, tools or ideas are needed. You can stop talking about it and everyone can count on the right outcome.