Unnecessary work meetings can rob you of time you (and others) can be using to actually accomplish things. Sure, communication is important — you need to keep your colleagues in the loop. However, it’s also easy to overdo it. Before you know it, every little thing turns into an occasion for a meeting or conference (possibly with a side of bagels or danish). If the meeting organizers have valuable information for you and your co-workers, that’s fine. But just as often, the meeting ends up being an exercise in aimless chit-chat (to say nothing of overeating) that only drains away valuable time for all concerned. Author Nicole Blades shares six secrets for pruning away unnecessary meetings in Sidestep Pointless Powwows, Part 2 of her January 2009 Women’s Health Magazine article Work Less, Do More. Try the following list of…

6 Ways To Avoid Unnecessary Work Meetings

1. Decide whether you need to be there. Is your presence truly essential? If not, send your regrets.
2. Avoid meetings with no agenda. Ask for one, and if none is forthcoming, politely decline.
3. Schedule meetings to last one hour.  If you’re in charge, impose a strict time limit. Starting and ending on time gives all concerned a sense of urgency and commitment.
4. Ask for three solutions per problem. Prepare a one-page agenda with three to five points. For each, limit everyone to no more than three solutions. The result: less talk, more action.
5. Keep a jibber-jabber journal. For two days, note your casual rap sessions and whether or not they’re helpful. You may be surprised.
6. Set limits on chitchat. Gently inform your gossipy coworker that you only have X minutes to spare. When time’s up, say you must get back to work, suggesting that Part Two be continued after hours.

When you follow these suggestions and cut back on idle chatter, you’ll find your company meetings will be more focused and valuable.