You will find that many meetings are mandatory but you can consider it to be an opportunity to make your mark at the company and advance your career.
If you are like everyone else, you don’t immediately jump up with excitement at the sound of a meeting at work. You will find that many meetings are mandatory but you can consider it to be an opportunity to make your mark at the company and advance your career. So how do you make sure you stand out at a meeting?
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Do your homework: Before you head into the meeting, it’s critical to go through the agenda ahead of time and find one area where you can add value. Additionally, go through any necessary paperwork and jot down any notes so that you can ask the right questions.
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Listen Attentively: You want what you share to remain accurate, relevant and original. Put your phone away and look interested at the points that are being put across during the meeting.
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Allow others to contribute: While it’s important to show that you are confident and decisive, you are not there to take over the meeting and not allow anyone else to put their points across. Make sure that you remain focused on gaining enough knowledge to be prepared to challenge decisions. If you disagree with someone, do so in a diplomatic way.
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Follow-up: After the meeting, it’s important to follow up on any action points that are pending. You should implement any ideas and suggestions that were presented. Making an effort to follow up on notes from the meeting shows your boss initiative and that you are willing to help.
