You want to be collaborative and nice. I get that.

But do you know when it is counterproductive?

For example, what do you think is the worst way to open a meeting?

The answer: “Would you like to start or should I?”

This is an open invitation for the other person to talk without preparation or purpose.

Some people will seize the opportunity because being the center of attention is a good way to stand out in a crowd, right? And so they talk.

Some will immediately think, “OMG! I need to say something intelligent” or supportive or funny or complimentary. And then they talk.

Some will be flattered to be asked and so will respond much as in the OMG reaction. They too will talk.

Some will see this as an opportunity to take ownership, show leadership, or voice their opinion in an effort to steer the pending decision. And so they talk.

If you open a meeting this way, the most likely scenario is the loss of 5 – 15 minutes multiplied by the number of people present.

The worst case scenario is complete loss of control of the meeting. Who knows what topics the speaker will raise and where the group will run with them! You may never get the meeting back on track!

The best case scenario is if the other person declines so you can open. But even that case makes you appear unprepared. If you know EXACTLY what needs to be different at the end of the meeting and how you are going to get there, there should be NO question about how to open the meeting!

Want more ideas about how to make meetings short and powerful? Here are the answers you need now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Clarity-Productivity-Confidence-Empowerment/dp/1472987136