Workforce Participation Boosts Meeting Efficiency

Workplace meetings are essential to ensure the company's improved performance and to keep the organization informed. Top executives and the rest of the workforce spend a great deal of time and resources on various meetings. However, some studies have pointed out that almost 50 percent of corporate consultations are not that efficient. The frequency of meetings have also been cited as a factor causing decreased productivity. A recent research presented at the annual conference of British Psychological Society's Division of Occupational Psychology emphasizes the importance of workforce feedback and participation in discussing personnel output and company updates during meetings.

Researchers at the Leeds University Business School conducted a survey on 377 employed individuals who attended more than 50 meetings. Each one accomplished questionnaires about the efficiency of the consultations. Generally, satisfaction rating for aspects such as attendance, facilitation, and outcomes was fine. Areas needing further improvement were enumerated by the participants. Some of which are stakeholder attendance and promptness. From these assessed points noted, the employees were able to create guidelines for improved participation in the next series of meetings. Results showed that meeting attendees feel more satisfied and valuable when they take part in recommending changes or solutions. Corporations and members mutually benefit if meetings are more interactive and productive. Organizational problems are discussed and resolved through meetings. However, these consultations could also be unproductive and time-consuming if poorly planned and facilitated. The cycle could go on.

The basics in conducting efficient meetings should be understood by the whole organization. Being informed of the meetings' objectives and agenda empowers not only the top level executives but the new and junior personnel as well. It teaches awareness of each one's role and responsibility in the company. In a fast-paced work environment where time and money are always invested, well-planned meetings improve attendance and increase interest in the matters being discussed. Facilitation that motivates employee feedback makes the consultations productive too. This leads to better consensus on major decisions and policy changes.

Technology has been integrated in workplace meetings to minimize resources spent on such activities, especially when the participants involved are from distant places. Whether meetings take place in a video conference or face-to-face discussion, what matters most is that participants express their thoughts on matters concerning them and the organization.

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