We’ve all been there. In the middle of a meeting, glancing at our phones, nodding along absentmindedly. We tell ourselves that we’re multitasking, that we’re capable of paying attention to two things at once. But in reality, we’re not doing either task justice. Being Present at the meeting (到會推介)  isn’t just about appearing engaged - it’s actually critical to the success of the meeting and our own productivity.

Stay focused

When we’re distracted during a meeting, we’re not able to offer valuable opinions or insights that could contribute to the discussion. We also risk misunderstanding important details about action items or deadlines. By staying focused and present in the meeting, we’re able to actively participate and ensure that the meeting is productive.

Show respect

If we’re not present during a meeting, we’re essentially telling our colleagues that their time and input is not valuable to us. This lack of respect can damage relationships and hinder collaboration. By being fully present, we show that we value our colleagues' time and contributions, which can lead to more productive and meaningful meetings.

Build trust

When our colleagues feel that we’re not fully present, they may question our commitment to the work or the team. This can erode trust and harm the overall atmosphere of the meeting. However, when we show up fully, we build trust with our colleagues and demonstrate our eagerness to work collaboratively toward common goals.

Improve productivity

When we’re not present, we’re not contributing in a meaningful way to the discussion. We may miss key details or misunderstand the objectives of the meeting. However, when we’re engaged and present, we’re able to work more efficiently and effectively. This leads to higher quality work and better outcomes.

Model good behavior

As leaders, it’s important that we set an example for our team members. Being present during meetings is an important part of demonstrating our commitment to the organization and our colleagues. By modeling good behavior, we encourage our team members to do the same, creating a culture of engagement and productivity.

Conclusion:

In the age of constant distractions and competing priorities, it can be easy to get sidetracked during meetings. However, being present at the meeting is critical to the success of the work we do and the relationships we build. By focusing on the task at hand and showing respect to our colleagues, we can build trust, improve productivity, and create a culture of engagement and collaboration. So the next time you find yourself drifting during a meeting, take a deep breath and refocus - it could make all the difference.