Fifteen Ways to Master a Meeting

Here are some tips you can use to master a meeting .

(Click on each tip to read more information.)

Know everybody's name.
- Get names ahead of time (they are normally on the agenda).
- Draw a little diagram and mark in everybody and their name.
- Introduce yourself when the opportunity arises.
- Get everyone's business card.
Know what everybody does so you won't step on anybody's toes.
- Ask!
- Look at their business card.
- Find out ahead of time.
Be careful about personal comments.
- Just don't make them!
- Some things are best discussed privately.
Don't create subconscious barriers to communication.
- Be especially careful if you are in the habit of folding your arms across your chest.
- Ask someone to monitor your body language and then make a real effort to get rid of negative mannerisms.
Sit erect and square your shoulders. Look alert and lean forward slightly.
- Ask somebody you trust to monitor your body language when you are sitting and to give you feedback.
- Be aware of your body language and work at keeping a pleasant expression on your face.