3 Ways to Improve Engagement at Your Next Meeting
Meetings are a cornerstone of professional collaboration, yet maintaining engagement can be a persistent challenge. Consider incorporating these strategies when planning your next meeting or retreat to maximize productivity and ensure everyone participates.
Start with an Icebreaker Activity – Opening a meeting with an appropriate icebreaker activity sets a positive tone and encourages team members to connect. Icebreakers can range from quick team-building exercises to thought-provoking questions that spark discussion. For instance, a “Two Truths and a Lie” game can inject an element of fun while fostering a sense of camaraderie – it also works in hybrid and remote situations. Icebreakers help to break down barriers, establish rapport, and create an open atmosphere conducive to collaboration.
Encourage Interaction Throughout – Sustaining engagement throughout the meeting requires effort. Foster a culture of participation by encouraging open dialogue, inviting diverse perspectives, and actively seeking input from all team members. To maintain momentum, consider incorporating interactive elements such as polls, Q&A sessions, or group discussions. Emphasize the importance of active listening and acknowledge contributions, creating a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and engaged.
Change Locations for a Fresh Perspective – A change of scenery can invigorate a team and stimulate fresh ideas. Consider holding meetings in different locations, whether it’s a well-designed conference room, an outdoor space, or even a virtual setting. A change in environment can break the monotony and spark creativity. It also allows team members to experience a different atmosphere, potentially inspiring new insights and perspectives.
When implementing these strategies into your next meeting, the Lisa Maloff University Center at Lake Tahoe Community College is an ideal location. It offers plenty of flexible room space, reliable and high-quality technology, easily accessed outdoor trails, and spaces for team-building activities, all in a beautiful setting in South Lake Tahoe.
