maple leaf on rocks Kate Harper Coaching

Virtual Meetings That Work

Tip 3: Determine what's best done in vs. out of the meeting

In a virtual meeting time is precious. So what you don't do in the meeting is as important as what you do. Ask yourself, what's most effectively done in real time and what can be better done asynchronously outside the meeting? If you've ever tried to reach a decision via email, you know that group decision making and is often more effective and efficient in real time. Also celebrating and recognizing success have more impact in the group than offline.

But often, there's one thing that uses a significant amount of meeting time that's better done elsewhere: status reporting. Do status reports asynchronously beforehand. Create an agreement to identify in the report both key accomplishments and areas that need group focus to bring to the meeting. Then use the meeting to recognize successes as well as leverage the knowledge and skills of those in the room -- to align goals, build on each other's ideas, and agree on action.

Best done IN the meeting
  • Group decision making
  • Brainstorming
  • Alignment
  • Celebrations
Best done OUT of the meeting
  • Planning
  • Status reports
  • Information gathering
  • Detailed editing or word-smithing




next Tip 4: Facilitate for participation
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