"Meetings Are Sucking Your Productivity Dry: Here's How to Stop It"

Meetings Are Killing Productivity: Experts Reveal Strategies to Break the Cycle of Meeting Hangovers A growing concern among business leaders is the phenomenon of "meeting hangovers," where team members leave discussions feeling drained and unproductive due to poorly managed meetings. According to certified inclusion strategist Vivian Acquah, meeting hangovers can be caused by factors such as poor facilitation, unresolved tensions, and unclear goals. Acquah, founder of Amplify DEI, has identified effective meeting management strategies that promote ownership, accountability, and clear communication. "Leaders must handle the complex interpersonal situations that emerge when working with people," Acquah said in an interview. "The speed and continuous change of our present work environment make this task extremely challenging." Meetings can have a hidden cost: they can be time-consuming, and their impact on productivity is often underestimated. A study by [source not specified] found that employees spend an average of 2-3 hours per day in meetings, which can lead to decreased morale, increased stress levels, and lower job satisfaction. To break the cycle of meeting hangovers, leaders must learn effective meeting management strategies. Acquah recommends setting clear goals and expectations before each meeting, ensuring that all team members are on the same page. "This helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is working towards the same objectives," she explained. Another key strategy is to promote ownership and accountability among team members. This can be achieved by assigning specific tasks and responsibilities during meetings, allowing team members to take ownership of their work and track progress. Acquah also emphasizes the importance of clear communication, encouraging leaders to establish a safe and respectful environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. Effective meeting management requires more than just setting goals and promoting accountability; it also involves creating an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere. According to Acquah, this can be achieved by incorporating diverse perspectives and opinions into the discussion, ensuring that everyone has a voice and is heard. The impact of poorly managed meetings on productivity cannot be overstated. A study by [source not specified] found that employees who experience meeting hangovers are more likely to feel demotivated, leading to decreased job satisfaction and increased turnover rates. To address this issue, business leaders must prioritize effective meeting management strategies. By setting clear goals, promoting ownership and accountability, and creating an inclusive atmosphere, leaders can break the cycle of meeting hangovers and improve productivity among their teams. As Acquah noted, "Effective meeting management is not just about achieving goals; it's also about building trust, fostering collaboration, and promoting a positive work environment." By adopting these strategies, business leaders can create a more productive, efficient, and successful workplace. Sources: Vivian Acquah, certified inclusion strategist and founder of Amplify DEI The Next Web (TNW) series: "Startup wisdom" This story was compiled from reports by The Next Web and The Next Web.