Meetings and More Meetings … Basics of Effective Meetings Part II - Reasons to Postpone or Cancel

Let’s continue Thursday’s discussion on effective meetings.  The second major component of effective meetings is knowing when a meeting is no longer necessary or needs to be postponed.

There are four major reasons to postpone a meeting:

1.) The purpose of the meeting is not clear or well-defined.  In this case, postpone the meeting until you are crystal clear on why a meeting is necessary.  Never meet “just because” …

2.) The organizer (or proposed attendees) has not adequately prepared for the meeting (i.e., the agenda has not been developed or research to be discussed at the meeting has not been completed).  In this case, postpone the meeting until essential pre-work for the meeting has been completed.

3.) There exist personal issues likely to affect the tone, atmosphere and/or fluidity of the meeting.  In this case, resolve particularly disruptive issues -then meet. Team meetings are not the place to resolve personal issues.

4.) When key members of the team or organization are not available to attend the meeting. In this case, postpone or cancel the meeting until the key people can attend. 

Knowing when to cancel or postpone meetings is an effective skill that will save time and help you develop a reputation for only have productive and efficient meetings.  For more help around this topic, contact us at UpwardAction Coaching.

Until next time … Take Great Care!

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