Gears For Careers

Make meetings with the boss productive

A meeting with your boss is one meeting you always have to prepare for and make as productive as possible. It’s an opportunity to speak to an issue, bring the boss up to speed and learn more about your boss’ thinking processes. To help you manage meetings with your boss, here are some suggestions;

Have an outcome in mind: Make sure you are clear on agenda. When you know the purpose, it helps you prepare and to do your best to ensure the meeting is useful.

Know your stuff: Is your boss happy with the headlines? Do they like getting into the detail? Do they love numbers or are they satisfied with a solid narrative on trajectory? Don’t come and dump a problem or issue without providing some suggestions on how you could move it forward. Be ready to answer questions related to the agenda item and any others related to your responsibilities.

Keep it honest: Use these meetings to reassure your boss that you are on top of your work and share any recent highlights. And also be honest about challenges you may be facing— not in a way that has you shooting yourself in the foot, but with the aim of giving a balanced picture. Ask questions if you’re not clear on any point your boss makes.

Look ahead: If your manager has not clearly stated any specific issues beyond the stated agenda items, check with him/her if there are any particular priorities to address. Make sure you summarise key headlines from the discussion and the action points agreed so that expectations are clear on what needs to happen after the meeting.

Now take action: How can you improve meetings with your boss?

 

 

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