As you prepare for your next meeting ask yourself the following questions: · Why do we need to meet? · What is the purpose of the meeting? · Is this an informational, decision-making, problem-solving, brainstorming, team-building, or instructional/skill-building meeting? Or a combination of a few of these? · What is the outcome I want to achieve as a result of this meeting? · Is there an alternative format I can use to achieve the outcome? · If a meeting is essential, what is the ideal meeting format to achieve the meeting outcomes—an in-person meeting, a virtual meeting, or a combination of the two? · Who needs to attend the meeting? · What information do I need from the attendees? · What do the attendees need to know or complete in advance of the meeting to achieve the meeting outcome? · What expectations do I have for the meeting attendees regarding preparation and participation? How will I communicate these expectations? · What is the ideal length of the meeting to accomplish the stated purpose of the meeting? Use the answers to these questions to guide you in planning and preparing for your next meeting. …see more