They should know how to invoke a constructive discussion and keep it within its topic. They record any new issues that arise but don't relate directly to the present case for a next debate. They also know how to lead the discussing employees to a joint decision.
Meetings should be held in the afternoon
Let your people do their main work in the morning when most people reach the greatest performance. They are also better tuned for a meeting after lunch.
Meetings should not occupy most of the working days
If you have a calendar full of meetings which, moreover, occur every week, when you want to do your real job?
Meetings should not be held without preparation
Convening meetings based on sudden motives e.g. in the hallway is mostly not effective. In most of the cases, decisions are made without key people or only turbulent exchanges of views occur with no result.
Meetings should continuously improve
If you hold regular meetings, regularly ask the participants what measures they would propose for the meetings to be more effective.
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