Cut through the noise
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It would be convenient if one-on-one meetings were somehow exempt from disruptions caused by the two participants. In reality, they aren’t. Whether pleasant conversations with people whose company you enjoy or tense conversations, one-on-one meetings can require you to manage disruptions. Reality Check: Do you approach one-on-one meetings expecting an easy flow from one agenda item to the next? If so, read on… The challenges that plague larger meetings can be equally disruptive to conversations—they just may surface differently in the smaller setting. For example:
In a meeting with greater participation, the group often calls attention to these behaviors by expressing frustration – loud sighs, eye rolling, or directly confronting the behavior that is wasting their time. When there are only two of you, your loss of focus may go unnoticed more easily and longer. When you get along well, unrelated topics may be more fun and interesting than the agenda. When you don’t get along, either of you may try to sidestep issues, deflect blame, avoid taking responsibility for action items, or withdraw. Here are four simple strategies to ensure productive one-on-one meetings:
Looking for more guidance on boosting your productivity in group and one-on-one meetings? This post is based on Don’t Waste My Time: Expert Secrets for Meetings that Inspire, Engage and Get Results, which is full of tips and strategies to help you be more productive before, during, and after every meeting. A FREE pdf tip sheet to get a derailed meeting back on track: 4 Triggers of Disruptive Meeting Behaviors--and How to Deal with Them Positively and Effectively is also available. Check it out! ©2019 Kimberly Devlin, All rights reserved
6 Comments
Angela Schaetzka
9/13/2019 03:38:09 pm
These are great points! What struck me the most was starting with a question, I never do this but realized I have a coworker that does this all the time and I never thought about why. It is a very helpful opener. Thank you!
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Kimberly Devlin
9/21/2019 05:49:16 pm
You are welcome! Come back and let us know how it works out for you...!
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Tammy
9/13/2019 05:37:17 pm
I like that you mentioned how disruptions can be pleasant as well as tense conversations. Both can be disruptive if the meeting does not go as planned. Great strategies!
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Kimberly Devlin
9/21/2019 05:50:17 pm
Thanks Tammy. Yes, it is easy to not notice the pleasant ones as quickly.
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Kimberly Devlin
9/8/2022 12:34:26 pm
Glad to hear this is useful to you at your work!
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April 2020
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