I’ve traveled outside the U.S. three times this year already and once, about a week ago, it impacted a meeting I had. I want to create some space on meetings and more specifically respecting time.
Time Matters
We all make agreements to meet at a specific time. But what happens when we don’t? Being late isn’t just about common decency; it’s about respecting the time and productivity of the person waiting. Each tardy minute is stolen time, an action that can be seen as not only disrespectful but counterproductive.
The Unexpected: A Human Approach
Life happens. Delays occur. No one is asking you to be perfect, only thoughtful. If you’re late, tell them. Before the meeting starts. Before they’ve stopped their world to wait for you. Simple, human, right.
The Power of Presence
Beyond time, there’s presence. Being in the meeting means being in the moment. Composed, prepared, focused. No phones, no distractions, just collaboration and respect.
Meeting Duration: A Practical Strategy
Here’s a proposal: 25 and 50-minute meetings. Why this unconventional timing? It allows a buffer – five minutes every half-hour and ten minutes every hour to gather yourself. It’s a built-in mechanism to ensure you’re ready, relaxed, and can transition between meetings without rush. Google Calendar even has a setting for this, allowing the leader to set an example for the entire organization.
The Meeting Ethos
Why? Because our meetings are not mere formalities. They are interactions, partnerships, collaborations. They send messages, shape habits, and define our values as leaders.We gather talent, valuable and scarce, and our job is to make the most of it. Choose to meet well, because in the grand scheme of our daily dance with time and people, it’s not just about being on time or present.
It’s about being human, respectful, and making things happen.
©️ 2023 Vikrant Duggal