Here’s the Secret to Better Meetings

Because a team works together, it’s essential that they hold meetings. But how many of the meetings that take place actually succeed? Successful meetings are the kind of meetings where each member moves forward and contributes to creative solutions in business.

Oprah Winfrey uses a powerful strategy to make sure that her meetings are clear. She asks three questions every time:

• What is our intention for this meeting?
• What's important?
• What matters?

Whether you own a physical business and see your employees daily, or you run a virtual team, you can ask these exact questions. They give your meeting a strong start.

The Power of Clarity in Meetings (and More Tips to Ensure Clarity)

A solopreneur who strives for results always seek clarity. She knows that every meeting should have a definite purpose, instead of just being a “regular thing.” Clarity holds people accountable and makes them feel empowered.

Here are six more ways to bring clarity into meetings, thus making them as productive as possible:

1. Discussions should be results oriented. Focus on the desired outcomes, short-term goals, and long-term goals.

2. Ask open-ended questions. While the meeting is going on, encourage people to speak up by asking questions that allow them to express their thoughts and feelings.

3. Set a meeting agenda. Effective business owners focus on very specific things instead of going all over the place. You can structure your meetings in this manner:

• Share current achievements and highlights of the business
• Changes that happened (customers, business, market)
• Come up with a realistic action plan (that everyone can agree on)

4. Have a record of the meeting. Meeting minutes are important. When team members (and you) forget some details, you can review what you’ve discussed. You’re always guided.

5. Keep things relevant. Meetings can always get off track. Sometimes a team member shares something irrelevant and it becomes an endless speech. This is where you go back to your agenda, and redirect the person’s attention.

6. Encourage positivity! Don’t start your meeting by stating problems, complaining, and whining. Use optimism. It’s a powerful tool in achieving goals and overcoming challenges. (Related: Optimism Is a Choice: The Importance of Attitude for Solopreneur Success)

Final Thoughts

Make a huge difference in your solopreneur meetings by holding meetings that lead to results. Start by asking the three questions that Oprah Winfrey asks, focus on results, have an agenda, maintain relevancy, and encourage positivity.