Management in the Real World CSUN November 17th 2008

Principles of an effective meeting November 2008 Rick Leahy - Vector Marketing - Cutco Cutlery LA Assistant Division Manager Burbank District Manager Office

Principles of an effective meeting  Clear purpose  Correct participants  Written agenda  Follow-up! November 2008

Clear Purpose  No IF One-way information dissemination Meeting for the sake of meeting Meeting when information can be communicated in another way Meeting when key people are not available Meeting when participants don’t have time to prepare Is it necessary to meet? November 2008

Clear Purpose  Yes, IF Two-way information exchange Making decisions Solving problems/evaluating alternatives Achieving group consensus Gaining input on/acceptance of new idea Brainstorming/generating ideas Providing training Generating team spirit Is it necessary to meet? November 2008

Clear Purpose  What exactly are you trying to accomplish?  How will you determine success or failure? “By the end of the meeting, I want the group to …” Pick a fund raising topic.” Finalize our Social Calendar.” Complete our Goals for the year.” November 2008

Correct attendees  Who is necessary? Someone with….. Specific information? Specialized expertise? Decision making authority? Creativity? Big picture perspective?  Rule of thumb 10 for general discussion 5-8 for decision making November 2008

Written agenda – In advance  Logistics Date Time Location  Objective(s) Write up if you like.  Participant roles/responsibilities.  Topics for discussion and time allotted to each. Ask for input from key participants. November 2008

The essentials  Be prepared  Start on time  Stick to the agenda Stay focused Avoid unrelated topics/rambling  Ensure everyone is heard and understood  Take minutes Action items and responsibilities Flip charts to ensure understanding  End on time November 2008

Some Extras  Music  Wall Candy  On Time Drawing  Ice Breakers Mixers Introductions  Have Greeters Distribute name tags Distribute materials November 2008

Follow-up!!!!  Prepare and distribute meeting report, including: Decisions Actions and responsibilities Unresolved issues  Ensure all participants understand and carry out their responsibilities  Start next meeting with status updates November 2008

QUESTIONS????

Thank you Rick Leahy Office Company Information Cutco Cutlery - Vector Marketing Corporation - Work Opportunities -