We all value our time. It’s not like money—there aren’t other ways to create more. So why do we call meetings just for the sake of having a meeting or take precious working hours to sit in a boardroom and shoot the breeze?

Meetings are necessary in business, but they don’t have to be the bane of our existence. While bad meetings drive us crazy, good meetings can inspire and motivate employees. Gretchen Rubin, author of best-seller The Happiness Project, recalled a friend that worked at the Department of Justice. Rubin’s friend once told her, “Jamie Gorelick runs a meeting so well, it brings tears to my eyes.”

That’s the goal.

Conducting productive meetings takes skill. I’ve compiled a list of traits that all productive meetings have. Of course this list isn’t comprehensive, but you’re headed in the right direction if you can check these off at your next meeting. [Read more…]