Online meetings have become increasingly popular due to remote work and digital communication. However, they can often be unproductive and time-consuming. For efficient online meetings, it is crucial to follow a framework that includes specific rules, considerations, and tips before, during, and after the meeting.

10 tips

1. Minimize the number of participants for collaborative meetings. Focus on 2-5 people, and consider professional facilitation for groups of 5-10 or more.

2. Suggest a focused meeting set up to minimize distractions. Invest in the right tool or device that supports focus, such as a tablet.

3. Establish specific meeting rules for speaking order, turn-taking, and other facilitation considerations.

4. Schedule breaks every 45 minutes for long sessions to prevent screen fatigue and encourage mental breaks.

5. Use plain English and avoid jargon to promote clarity and understanding, especially for cross-team meetings.

6. Pay attention to scheduling and time zones, and consider personal preferences when setting meeting times.

7. Experiment with different meeting formats and styles to increase engagement and participation.

8. Reconsider daily standups and try alternative meeting styles, such as asynchronous communication.

9. Incorporate team-building activities or habits into meetings, such as inspiring quotes or calming music.

10. Use a stopwatch and aggressive time limits to keep meetings short and productive.

+2 tips

1. Emergency meetings require immediate action, so invite only those who can help and act promptly.

2. People-first culture meetings, such as performance or feedback meetings, may require a less structured approach and more personal consideration.

By following these tips and considerations, you can increase the productivity and efficiency of online meetings. Remember to focus on planning and preparation, facilitating during the meeting, and following up with documentation and analysis.