Feeling hungry for learning? We have just the thing for you. Taking inspiration from the famous dish – Seekh Kebabs, we have started this series of learning bites with quick tips on a particular topic with easy application in your daily work.
Enjoy reading this Business Etiquette Seekhle Kebab with your favorite chutney i.e. Action on the learning.
9 tips on Meetings and Conference Etiquette that will greatly up your work effectiveness and growth:
1. Respect Time: if 1 thing people are short of is time. So, plan, start and end on time, even if it means some issues will be carried forward. Only extend with everyone’s permission
2. Watch your body language: avoid leaning, relaxing, or distracting body language. Your body language will greatly make or break your impression with your seniors, juniors, team alike. And everyone’s subconscious mind is actively judging this
3. Carry note-taking material: it can be a diary and pen, and it can be your laptop and phone. However, if you are using a phone or laptop, clearly state that to everyone you are using it for note-taking reasons. Otherwise, people assume you are multi-tasking and not in the room
4. Phone: keep it on silent, and if there is an urgent call, excuse yourself, and step outside the room to take it
5. Watch your voice and tone: speak politely and avoid heated arguments
6. Listen actively: the better listener is always at an advantage. They are sought for by others and it is easier for them to speak when given a chance
7. Say something and make it useful: sitting quietly during the entire meeting without uttering a word is also not good, it literally makes you invisible. Even if you are the note-taker, do a summary in the end in a loud and clear voice.
8. Make eye contact, with everyone: when someone is speaking make eye contact with them unless they are pointing at a slide or you are taking notes.
9. Watch what you eat!: had rice or curd at lunch just before the meeting? You definitely are going to feel sleepy. Avoid sleeping-inducing foods and overeating.
If you have suggestions on being more effective in meetings, please do share in the comments below. Stories and incidents that happened with you are also most welcome.