Eight key takeaways from each meeting

Introduction

This quick framework will help you ensure each meeting you have is highly productive.

Framework

Decisions made: Ambiguity is the enemy of execution. Every meeting must conclude with a clear, verbal confirmation of exactly what was decided. If a decision cannot be articulated in one sentence, it has not actually been made.

Action items: Discussion is not work. You must leave with a physical list of tasks required to implement the decisions. A meeting without action items is just a conversation.

Direct ownership: Passive voice destroys accountability. Every action item must have a single owner’s name attached to it. "We need to fix this" is a wish; "Bob will fix this" is a plan.

Hard deadlines: Tasks without dates are suggestions. Every owner must commit to a specific timeframe for their deliverable. If a date cannot be set, the next step is to determine the date, not to leave it open-ended.

Cascading communication: Information dies in silos. You must identify exactly who outside the room needs to know the outcome of the meeting. Determine who is responsible for delivering that message to them.

The next sync: Momentum is lost in the gap between meetings. Before parting, establish exactly when the group will review progress. Scheduling the follow-up immediately prevents the project from drifting.

A shared narrative: Human memory is faulty. The group should agree on a three-bullet summary of the meeting. This ensures that when participants explain the outcome to others, they are all telling the same story.