Do you ever feel like you’ve lost control of a meeting and it’s going nowhere? Perhaps the conversation has gone off on a tangent, someone is dominating the discussion, or people are not engaged. It can be frustrating when valuable time is wasted and the meeting’s goals are not being met. The good news is that with a few strategies, you can get the meeting back on track and make the most of your time.
Refocus the Agenda: Sometimes, a meeting goes off track because the agenda is not clear or people are not following it. Refocus the discussion by reiterating the meeting’s purpose and goals. Bring the conversation back to the topics that need to be addressed and encourage participants to stick to the agenda. If necessary, table off-topic items for another meeting.
Set Ground Rules: Setting ground rules at the start of a meeting can help prevent disruptions and ensure everyone is on the same page. Establish guidelines for the meeting, such as not interrupting others, staying on topic, and respecting others’ opinions. This will help participants stay focused and engaged throughout the meeting.
Redirect Dominating Behaviour: It’s not uncommon for one or two people to dominate a meeting, leaving others feeling left out or disengaged. If you notice this happening, politely interrupt and redirect the conversation to others. Encourage quieter participants to share their thoughts and ideas. If necessary, take a break and have a one-on-one conversation with the dominating individual to discuss their behavior.
Encourage Active Listening: Effective communication is key to a successful meeting. Encourage active listening by summarising key points and asking participants to repeat important details. This will help ensure everyone is on the same page and can contribute to the discussion.
Be Flexible: Meetings can sometimes take unexpected turns, and it’s important to be flexible. If new information or ideas come up, consider whether they fit within the meeting’s goals and adjust the agenda if necessary. Being open to new ideas and perspectives can lead to a more productive and successful meeting.
By using these strategies, you can get your meeting back on track and thrive in collaborative settings. Remember to stay focused on the meeting’s purpose, establish ground rules, redirect dominating behavior, encourage active listening, and be flexible. With a little effort, you can make the most of your time and achieve the meeting’s goals.