Once I was approached by a team member and enquired why she is not being given special tasks or not being involved that much in comparison with her another colleague. Since I had led both team members and knew where she is falling behind.
I suggested few points to follow, she was no longer feeling left behind and became a dynamic contributor in the team. Here are 10 points –
- Always carry notepad and a pen to take notes; do not just walk-in (be prepared).
- Sit attentively and listen to the conversation; do not lean back on chair; or do not keep looking at distant objects and checking time.
- Leave your cell phone behind; meetings are important, treat it like that.
- Try to capture key points; note down key phrases that you want to have someone clarify for your knowledge.
- Participate; ask questions; if not clear, ask speaker to repeat or ask for an example. There are no dumb questions.
- Maintain an eye contact; and nod to support the point if you agree. Wait for speaker to finish sentence before shooting a question.
- Observe other people in the meeting; how are they sitting; see who is paying more attention in the group.
- Show your interest in the discussion even if you may not be directly impacted or affected. Give your opinion if relevant.
- Offer to help or volunteer for any assignment; even if it is setting up team lunch on Friday or giving new hire orientation.
- Read something on body language. They way you sit, talk and see, conveys a lot if you are ‘really’ present in meeting.
Any good suggestion? Need more info, Google it. Thank you for reading and have a great time.
Leadership and Management 