Skill: Attention in meetings

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Many common distractions only divert attention for a minute or two at a time. But they add up. Imagine all of these common distractions taking place throughout a 60 minute meeting:

• Emotions are carried over from a previous meeting; people are nervous.
• There's some fun, social chat about a video trending on Instagram.
• The meeting kicks off and a leader adds an unexpected agenda item.
• A virtual attendee has not closed their inbox and you can hear a 'ping' each time they get an email.
• A few speakers ask sloppy questions and open up off-topic discussions.
• The off-topic discussion leads to someone talking about events going on in the world right now.
• As the meeting is off track, a side-conversation starts on the other side of the room.
• A virtual attendee picks up their dog for a cuddle which cues a conversation about life with a dog.
• One person brings the conversation back to work by talking about a success they had last month, stealing the limelight.
• Someone make a work-related but off topic suggestion that leads to a discussion about the purpose of the meeting.
• Time is up, and the leader quickly wraps up with a vague suggestion that everyone thinks about it further.

Chances are, you have experienced a meeting similar to this one. They are not productive! Next, you will find out how to manage a group's attention in a meeting while still creating a positive atmosphere.