Ending the Absurdity of Pointless Meetings  

Teams and leaders spend 30% or more of their time in meetings. So why are meetings not more productive and effective or, at least, getting better? Beyond the time and money wasted in poorly run meetings, bad meetings have real consequences leading to decreased morale, frustrated staff, stagnated creativity, and personnel departures.  

But, it does not need to be that way. Meetings, managed well, can be transformative, binding people together in cohesive teams, with explosive creativity and inspiration. Conflict can be turned into collaboration, leading to the exchange of divergent opinions that create meaningful outcomes. In this program, we will discuss ways to conduct better, more efficient, productive and collaborative meetings. Most importantly, participants will develop the skills needed to handle complex meeting dynamics, keep team members focused, and manage different communication styles to promote better results and inclusion. 

Whether you are leading the meeting or are a member of the team, this program will provide practical tips and insights that will allow you to create more effective collaborative experiences for everyone. 

 What you will learn: 

• The Number 1 mistake that causes meetings to go off track; 
• 2 psychological principles that drive better teamwork; 
• 3 ground rules that will increase creativity while decreasing conflict; 
• The perfect meeting size - how many people are too many; 
• Using roles to increase efficiency and develop leadership skills; 
• 4 engagement strategies that save time/increase participation and energize team dynamics; and  
• Two effective phrases that can eliminate 75% of all dysfunctional meeting behavior. 

Michael Chaleff will be your guide for this session.  Michael is a communication consultant and coach whose primary focus is helping people to speak with confidence, clarity and persuasion.  These skills are never more needed than in meetings.  Michael’s experience spans three decades, from combat operations in the First Gulf War to arguing cases as a criminal prosecutor in Federal Court and performing magic at tradeshows overseas.  He routinely coaches individuals, corporations and Federal Agencies on how to create better meetings and to help participants acquire the skills needed to speak persuasively in those meetings.