Meetings

When are business meetings worthwhile? When they have a purpose and yield a result or actionable steps. Any other set of reasons can be chalked up to intellectual vanity.

I am continually amazed at how many people really like to hear themselves talk. Do you really think you are that interesting? Do you think others are that interesting?

This post obviously goes with my last one, which was all about keys to making group dynamics work. I just wish more people would be aware of them. We can do great things and come up with wonderful solutions, but be quiet occasionally. Really.

Tribal Leadership and Staff meetings

Clients often wonder if staff meetings are important. After all, in small business, employees could be doing so much more "productive" things. In reality, most research has indicated that employees or team members are most productive when certain basic social, emotional and intellectual needs are met. Questions such as: "Do I know what my job is? Do I have the tools I need to do my job well? Do I get regular feedback? Do I have a best friend at work? Do I have an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way?"

In the Gallup Organization book - First Break All the Rules http://gmj.gallup.com/content/1144/First-Break-All-Rules-Book-Center.aspx , this concept of needs is explored fully. So by allowing the group to come together in a controlled, tribal fashion, the power of the team focuses on growing the capacity of the team. I would encourage your business to have regular team meetings - but somewhat sparsely. They are as a client reminds me "like pearls, slowly built up over time - and precious as a result." Another great resource book is Tribal Leadership http://www.triballeadership.net/ which explores how leaders and tribes cause each other to grow.

So go ahead, plan a team meeting. With a clear agenda, a firm timeline and good participation, you will be pleased with the results, and so will your people.