FACT: 1 in 5 people are prone to dozing off in a meeting.
It’s a common scenario: you’re sitting in a meeting, fighting the urge to nod off or doodle. In fact, a recent study found that a staggering 89 percent of people daydream during meetings, and over a third even fall asleep! But fear not, there are ways to stay engaged and even find value in those lengthy gatherings. Here are some Meeting Productivity Tips to help you make the most out of your time.
Strategies for Staying Focused
- First and foremost, position yourself near the speaker. Being visible to everyone will help you stay alert and attentive. Think of it as your personal VIP section for better meeting productivity.
- Furthermore, actively participate by asking questions to clarify points or contribute to the discussion. If questions aren’t allowed during the presentation, jot them down for later. However, ensure your questions propel the conversation forward, not backward, as part of your meeting productivity tips.
- Another effective tactic is to volunteer to take meeting notes. This keeps you focused and accountable. To prepare, discuss key data points with the presenter beforehand to ensure you capture the essential information. It’s one of the most valuable Meeting Productivity Tips.
- Similarly, if your mind wanders, gently bring it back by focusing on the speaker’s attire or a visual aid. This can be an easier way to regain focus than immediately trying to process the speaker’s words during the meeting for maximum productivity.
- Surprisingly, doodling can be a surprising productivity tool. For instance, use it to jot down to-dos, errands, or email ideas that pop into your head. This clears your mind and allows you to refocus on the meeting.
Meeting Productivity Tips: Physical and Mental Hacks
- Above all, sit up straight! Slouching restricts breathing and oxygen flow to the brain, hindering focus. Moreover, good posture can make you appear more confident and engaged, which is essential for meeting productivity.
- In addition to posture, a quick trip to the restroom can provide a much-needed energy boost and change of scenery to adhere to your list of meeting productivity tips.
- When it comes to fueling your focus, skip the coffee and energy drinks, as they can lead to crashes and restlessness. Instead, opt for almonds or a protein bar for sustained energy. A full stomach and healthy protein intake before the meeting are key for maintaining meeting productivity.
Meeting Productivity Tips: The Proactive Approach
- Finally, and perhaps most importantly, when possible, inquire if your attendance is truly necessary. This simple question could save you valuable time and energy and is a crucial meeting productivity tip.
A Certified Executive Coach Can Help You Stay Focused and Engaged in Meetings
If you’re still struggling to stay focused and engaged in meetings, consider hiring a certified executive coach. A coach can help you develop the skills and strategies you need to make the most of your time in meetings. They can also help you identify and overcome any underlying issues that may be contributing to your difficulty staying focused.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, working with a certified executive coach can also help you:
- Improve your communication skills
- Increase your self-awareness
- Develop your leadership potential
- Build your confidence
If you’re serious about improving your meeting productivity, consider hiring a certified executive coach. It could be one of the best investments you ever make.
Perception is everything. In the end, you can always ask (ahead of time) if your attendance is actually required as this may be the simplest solution to your upcoming meeting, adding to your list of Meeting Productivity Tips.
