Meetings are a vital part of the workday, but they can also be a major time suck. If you want to make the most of your time in meetings, it's important to follow some basic etiquette tips. Here are 7 basic etiquette of attending office meetings:
Be punctual
This is one of the most important meeting etiquette rules. Arriving late shows disrespect for the other attendees and wastes their time. According to a survey by Robert Half, 60% of employees say that tardiness is the biggest meeting etiquette violation.
Dress appropriately
The dress code for meetings will vary depending on the company culture and the industry. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and dress more formally than you think is necessary. A survey by CareerBuilder found that 43% of hiring managers have passed on a job candidate because of their attire.
Be prepared for the meeting
Come to the meeting with all necessary materials, such as an agenda, notes from previous meetings, and any relevant documents. This shows that you are taking the meeting seriously and that you are ready to contribute. A study by the University of California, Irvine found that employees who are prepared for meetings are more likely to be seen as engaged and productive.
Pay attention
Avoid checking your phone or laptop, and don't multitask during the meeting. Give the speaker your full attention and take notes so that you can follow along. A survey by The Economist Intelligence Unit found that employees who are engaged in meetings are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and stay with their companies.
Be respectful
Listen to the other attendees and avoid interrupting. If you have a question, raise your hand and wait to be called on. Be mindful of your body language and avoid fidgeting or looking bored. A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that people who are perceived as being respectful are more likely to be seen as credible and trustworthy.
Contribute
If you have something to contribute to the discussion, speak up. However, don't dominate the conversation or hog the spotlight. Be mindful of others' contributions and be willing to listen to different perspectives. A study by the University of Michigan found that employees who are actively involved in meetings are more likely to be seen as leaders and to be promoted.
Follow up is a part of meeting etiquette
After the meeting, send a follow-up email to summarize the key points and to reiterate any action items. This shows that you are taking the meeting seriously and that you are committed to making progress. A study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who follow up after meetings are more likely to see their ideas implemented.
By following these basic etiquette tips, you can make a good impression at your next office meeting and help ensure that the meeting is productive.
In addition to the 7 basic etiquettes listed above, here are a few other tips for attending office meetings:
Be mindful of your body language. Avoid crossing your arms or rolling your eyes, as this can be seen as disrespectful.
Avoid personal calls or text messages during the meeting. If you need to take an urgent call, excuse yourself from the meeting.
Don't eat or drink during the meeting unless it is permitted. If you do need to eat or drink, be discreet and avoid making a mess.
If you are not sure what to do, ask for clarification. It is better to ask a question than to misunderstand something.
Thank the meeting organizer for their time at the end of the meeting.
By following these tips, you can show that you are a professional and respectful meeting attendee. This will help you build relationships with your colleagues and contribute to productive meetings.