APU Careers Careers & Learning

How to Personalize Your Meeting

By J. Mason
Online Career Tips Editor

Besides taking basic etiquette into consideration, there’s not just one way to formulate a meeting. You can have all the office materials made available by your local retailer, and that still won’t make your meeting productive. What about engagement? How can you get your meeting guests engaged and feel respected while quietly listening to you? Personalization goes a long way, and if you can find an authentic way to present yourself, and your agenda items, then you’ll make a big impression.

It is the holiday’s, so there’s no doubt that you’ve already helped put away a couple boxes of goodies from vendors. All of that store-bought junk can be a nice treat, but it lacks personality. Here are some of my thoughts for improving the personal touch in your meetings.

  • ‘Tis the season to give. Take an hour the night before your meeting to make some treats for your guest. The box variety will work just fine, it’s the effort and thought that is appreciated.
  • Set the mood with a relevant video or story. Give the group something to relate to, or at least something to laugh about before getting down to business.
  • Include points in the agenda that call on attendees’ expertise.

Flatter when necessary, and treat because you can. When you’re running a creative meeting the atmosphere is more relaxed, but it’s up to you to accomplish your mission. Set the tone by making everyone feel at ease with a few homemade treats, and an agenda that is constructive, not intimidating.

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