Jamie Morley

Kevin, I agree with you! The key is sometimes not the meeting, but the premeeting work that you require and the minutes that are sent out that codify decisions and opinions. Also, I have a quantifiable weekly “script” or report that I have every department head complete. In academics for example, it includes items like, # of drops last week, # of new starts, # of students with multiple Fs, # of students absent for more than 3 consecutive days, faculty openings, upcoming events, and help needed from other departments. I require that this report is sent prior to the… >>>

Edward, Very insightful response! I agree that experience is a great teacher. One of my favorite books is called “Flight of the Buffalo.” The book compares the leadership strategies of Buffalo and Geese. Buffalo herds have one leader and when the herd is in danger the buffalos surround the leader. Unfortunately, if the leader gets killed, the herd scatters and is decimated because none of the other buffalo were ever trained to be the leader. Geese fly in a V formation. Every goose is taught how to be at the front of the V and lead the flock. If the… >>>

Kristy, Redirecting is not a bad strategy as long as it does not impede the progress of the team. You need to be direct, even if it is uncomfortable, and say something like, “I believe we are getting off topic, let’s get back to our agenda,”, or “I think we should take this conversation offline so that it does not distract the rest of the team. Let’s talk after the meeting and clarify.” The rest of the team will appreciate your candor. And, if the person has valid points, you should acknowledge them at the next meeting so that everybody… >>>