I was reading a book about team meetings and in that came up a question about ground rules. I answered the question for myself but I would like to hear a professional opinion. Therefore, my question is: Which two of the following meeting ground rules do you feel are most important. Why?
Ground rules:
- start and end on time
- everyone participates
- one person speak at a time
- stay on schedule
- all ideas are group property
- separate the idea or comment from the person
- decide by consensus
The Team Doc Says…
Good question! They are all very important to have a healthy, functional team meeting. If I had to prioritize them, my top two choices would be:
1. Separate the idea or comment from the person
2. Everyone participates
The power of a team is in its collaborative abilities. It’s critical that each and every member participate to make the most use of the wealth of knowledge and ideas in every team. Plus, since we’re talking people here, it’s easy to overlook an idea or comment from a team member who is not our favorite when that idea may be the best one for the team. It’s not easy to do, but can take a team to the next level of maturity.
Visit Setting Team Ground Rules for more information on what would work best for your team.
About Denise O'Berry
I was just in a staff meeting where I was thrown under the bus and people came into the meeting ready with their comments. There was no safety and the leader of the meeting let it happen.
I was hurt, mad and sad all at the same time. These supposedly co workers on the same agenda – but this time the agenda was attack.
How do I handle this scenario?
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear this. What an improper way to handle feedback. I don’t blame you for having a range of emotions — anyone would in this type of situation. Actually, if this ever happens again (I hope not!) you need to stop the meeting and have an immediate discussion with the meeting leader. Then you’ll need to follow up and get the feedback people are trying to give you via a one on one method.
As for this situation. Your next step is to talk with the meeting leader and discuss why this happened and what would have been a better way to handle. Make sure you have this discussion with as little emotion involved as possible (I know this will be really hard). You also need to identify an action plan of steps you will take based on the (improperly given) feedback you got in the meeting.
Please check back and let me know how this works out with you.