minutes to a meeting : What to Ask When You're Invited to a Meeting

He re a re five questions that you must ask befo re agreeing to attend a meeting.

1) Whe re is the agenda? A meeting without an agenda is like a journey without a map; it will always waste your time. Once you have the agenda, make su re that it consists of mo re than a list of words because this is almost useless. The agenda for an effective meeting will provide a complete description of how the meeting will proceed.

2) what is the goal? Is the chair seeking an agreement, a solution, or a plan? Knowing the goal gives you head start on participating effectively. Be cautious of meetings that a re held just "to talk about something," because this type of meeting seldom accomplishes anything.

3) what is my role? Make su re that your participation adds value to the meeting. Avoid meetings whe re you have a superficial role, such as to find out what's happening. In that case, ask for the minutes. If you' re needed to work on only part of the agenda, ask if you can attend only that part of the meeting.

4) How should I prepare? Make su re that you know about any research, readings, or surveys required to participate. ask about the expectations for the other participants because this could influence your preparation. Attend only if you can prepa re adequately or suggest another time for the meeting.

5) what should I bring? Should you bring a laptop? Will you be asked to give a presentation? Should you bring reports, data, or other information? Make su re that you have enough time to obtain the tools and materials needed for effective participation.

by Steve Kaye