Improve meeting effectiveness using the POST method
Meetings are a staple of professional life, but their effectiveness can vary widely. The proliferation of remote work and the challenges of coordinating diverse teams have underscored the need for more purposeful and efficient meetings.
The POST (Purpose, Outcome, Structure, and Timing) method provides a structured approach to enhance meeting effectiveness.
Example of a meeting using the POST method
Using the POST method
For meetings that you are either arranging or attending, you should be clear on the following:
The purpose: what is the reason for the meeting?
Before scheduling a meeting, clearly define its purpose. What do you aim to achieve? Whether it's decision-making, problem-solving, or information sharing, a well-defined purpose provides a roadmap for the meeting's agenda and ensures everyone is on the same page.
The outcome: what is the desired outcome?
Determine specific outcomes you want to achieve by the end of the meeting. Whether it's finalising a project plan, making key decisions, or obtaining feedback, setting measurable goals keeps discussions focused and contributes to tangible results.
The structure: what is the specific agenda of the meeting?
Outline a detailed agenda and share it with participants in advance. This allows attendees to come prepared, streamlining discussions and maximising the use of everyone's time.
The timings: what is the total time, and how will it be broken down?
Respect participants' time by starting and ending the meeting punctually. Set specific time limits for agenda items, and if discussions are taking longer than anticipated, consider deferring non-critical topics or scheduling a follow-up session.
Using the POST method, you can also really take the time to consider whether a meeting is truly essential or if the same goals can be achieved through async means, like an email.
By defining a clear purpose, establishing measurable outcomes, structuring the meeting with a thoughtful agenda, and managing timing effectively, you can transform your meetings into valuable and productive sessions.
Embrace this method as a guiding principle, and you'll find that your meetings become more efficient and meaningful and impactful for everyone involved.
