From Busy to Productive

Meetings in the workplace could use some improvements.

With most companies now working remotely, it has become even more evident.

Meetings are used to share information, which can be challenging for Software Engineers whose work is abstract. This often results in discussions about ideas that lead to zero progress.

It is important to remember that meetings are a communication tool to share information, not execute projects and get things done.

Abstract concepts may sound great during meetings but often need help remembering and executing. Adding more people to the group does not improve the situation. Many people believe that having more meetings equals increased productivity, when the opposite is true.

Back-to-back meetings often lead to reactive and urgent work, such as responding to emails and handling client crises. This reactivity can make people feel productive when not practicing proactive leadership.

Saying no to unproductive influences from teammates and clients is crucial to being proactive.

If you spend all your time in meetings and replying to emails, you’ll have little opportunity to think and lead. Making time for thinking and creativity is crucial as your schedule gets busier.

Plan your day the night before to focus on essential tasks and deprioritize meetings that add little value.

Without clear goals, you’ll be busy but unproductive.

To become a proactive leader, it is crucial to have a thinking space where you can focus your energy on creating real value for your business.

A calendar filled with back-to-back appointments does not state your leadership importance.

[¹]:Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life