There are approximately 55 million meetings a day in the United States. Although they often have many different purposes and goals, these meetings are typically conducted in the same way, time and time again. Namely, individuals gather together, virtually or face-to-face, to talk about a topic. We often don’t realize it, but talk is actually a choice; simply one of many different meeting styles or communication methods a leader can select. While talking meetings have much merit — when planned well they can be efficient and offer a level of comfort in speaking in person — they can also be subject to a host of problems: one person dominating, others checking out and multitasking, side conversations, straying off course, and pressures to conform to the boss’s ideas.
The Case for More Silence in Meetings
It can lead to more — and better — ideas.
June 14, 2019
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Summary.
There are approximately 55 million meetings a day in the United States. Most of them involve talking, which can also be subject to a host of problems: one person dominating, others checking out and multitasking, side conversations, straying off course, and pressures to conform to the boss’s ideas. Is there a better way? In situations that require brainstorming or ideating, silence might be key. Research shows that holding a silent meeting in certain circumstances can better leverage the ideas, perspectives, and insights of organizational talent. One approach to try involves asking attendees to independently generate ideas, either on paper or via an app, and then work to cull or sort the ideas to find the best solutions.
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How to make your meetings matter.
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New!
HBR Learning
Meeting Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Meeting Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
How to make your meetings matter.