Let me ask you something – how would you rate your driving skills? Are you a pro behind the wheel, an average driver, or maybe, just maybe, do you think you’re better than most?
It’s an interesting question that sheds light on our self-perception.
Bonjour, in this video, I want to challenge you about one simple topic: MEETINGS.
Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the link between these two?” Well, it’s surprisingly simple. A whopping 88% of drivers believe they’re better than the average driver. But even if you’re not a math whiz, you’ll spot the issue here. It’s impossible for 88% of folks to be above average, right?
Now, here’s the twist – they’ve conducted a similar study on meetings. It turns out that 79% of leaders think they run exceptional, super-effective meetings. That’s nearly 80%! But when you ask their teams, nearly 50% say these meetings are far from effective.
Once again, we see a gap between perception and reality, just like in our driving skills example.
Now, I want to share not just advice but a mindset shift with you. Whenever you’re in charge of a meeting, whether you’re the one requesting it or leading it, you’ve got a serious responsibility on your hands. And my advice? Prep, prep, prep – preparation makes all the difference.
Now, don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be a long, arduous process. I want you to focus on three simple things: Aim, Agenda, and Prep.
1. Aim: What’s the purpose of the meeting? What are we aiming to achieve? What outcomes are we expecting? What’s the meeting’s endpoint?
2. Agenda: A few bullet points, 2, 3, or 4, about what we’ll cover. What’s on the meeting’s agenda to reach our desired outcomes?
3. Prep: What should everyone do to prepare for this meeting? What background info or tasks are necessary?
One of my clients coined a brilliant rule – “No Aim, No Game.” In their team, if someone sends a meeting request without the aim, agenda, and prep details, everyone else just declines it. They all agreed on this rule – no exceptions.
The late Andy Grove, former Intel CEO, had this spot-on quote: “Just as you wouldn’t allow a fellow employee to steal a piece of equipment from the business, you shouldn’t let anyone walk away with the time of their fellow managers.”
Respecting everyone’s time is paramount when it comes to meetings. So, here’s my simple suggestion: Aim, Agenda, Prep.
Now, let me ask you – are you truly realistic about your ability to organize meetings that are better than average? Are you willing to introduce this simple yet effective “Aim, Agenda, Prep” rule with your team?
This is this week’s Work Smarter: Live Better tip.
Wishing you a lovely day ahead!
A bientôt,
Cyril
