7 Tips To Ensure You Engage Everyone During Your Next Meeting

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If you want to engage everyone during your next meeting, start with a bang. This means opening with something that captures everyone’s attention and gets them excited about the topic at hand. You can also get comfortable with silence, which will encourage people to participate more. Asking open-ended questions is another great way to engage everyone in the meeting. And finally, don’t forget to follow up after the meeting to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Start with a Bang

Starting off a meeting with a bang is key to ensuring that everyone stays engaged. You want to create an environment that gets people excited about the agenda and encourages them to contribute. Invite everyone to share their ideas and get the discussion going. You can also bring in elements like videos, polls, or interactive activities to spark interest and get people to participate. In order to make sure the meeting is successful, think through your opening and create an agenda that is interesting and well-organized. This will encourage people to stay engaged during the meeting and make the most of their time. Additionally, make sure to thank everyone for attending and set expectations for the meeting early on.

Get Comfortable with Silence

It may feel uncomfortable at first, but getting comfortable with silence is an important part of engaging everyone in the meeting. This will give people the space they need to think and respond. It also shows that you’re looking for thoughtful input from everyone and will give introverts the chance to participate. If people haven’t had the opportunity to share their opinion, ask them directly and try to draw out their thoughts. This can also help to create a more conversational atmosphere, which can help to foster a more meaningful dialogue. People may be more willing to open up if they have time to phrase their thoughts clearly, and this can help ensure that everyone has a chance to get their point across.

Encourage Participation

Having an inclusive and interactive approach to meetings is key to ensuring that everyone engages. Everyone should have a say, from the CEO to the intern. Encourage people to speak up and share their ideas and opinions. To make sure nobody is left out, make sure you’re breaking the conversation into smaller, manageable chunks and reiterating any points made. The best way to get people talking is to ask open-ended questions that require more than just a yes or no answer. Asking questions that require people to think and then share their opinions can help to encourage participation. You can also start a discussion by summarising what has already been said and allowing people to chime in.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions are a great way to get everyone involved in the meeting. They allow everyone to share their thoughts and feelings without simply saying “yes” or “no”. This encourages people to think more critically and come up with solutions together. Try to think of questions that challenge their thinking and get people to stretch their ideas. Consider which topics may spark interesting conversations, and make sure to ask questions about them. You could ask for feedback or for help in problem solving. This approach can help move the meeting in a positive direction, and everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

Body Language is Key

Body language is an often overlooked but important factor in making sure everyone stays engaged. During the meeting, make sure that you’re making eye contact with everyone and acknowledging any points made. This will make people feel valued and included. Another great way to keep people engaged is to listen and reflect on what they’re saying. Don’t simply agree with everything they say. Instead, take the time to sincerely agree or disagree, as this will help keep people interested and engaged in the conversation.

Take Breaks

Taking breaks during a meeting can help to keep people engaged and energised. Focusing on a single topic for too long can cause people to lose focus or become disengaged. Giving everyone a break after discussing a particular topic can allow for a deeper understanding of the issue and allow people to take in the information. When taking a break, try to introduce a fun activity that everyone can enjoy and bond over. This is a great way to take a few minutes away from the meeting and create an enjoyable atmosphere. To increase engagement, consider having everyone participate in the activity, such as playing a game or talking about interesting topics.

Follow Up

The last step after a meeting is to follow up. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and that the conversation is documented. Sending out a recap of the meeting and asking for feedback will allow everyone to review the topics discussed and make sure they are clear with any tasks assigned. It’s also important to make sure that everyone is updated with any new developments or changes that may occur over time. Following up ensures that everyone is kept in the loop and is aware of the progress being made. Additionally, it gives you the opportunity to ask for feedback and address any issues that may arise.

Meet with the Pros!

At Toronto Meetings, we can provide the perfect atmosphere for your next in-person meeting.

Our meeting and training rooms, which include the following technology amenities are fit for any after-hours get together.

  • High Speed Wi-Fi
  • 80″ OLED TVs
  • Built-in presentation equipment
  • Videoconference capabilities
  • Conference Phones

These spaces, which range from one person all the way up to 60 people and include both waterfront and city views are sure to be a fit for you and your team.

With direct access to Union Station via the PATH network, our 20 Bay St location makes it easy for you and your guests to arrive at your meeting room without ever stepping outdoors.  Daily and evening parking is also available for those choosing not to take public transit or who are coming from further areas in the GTA.

For more information about our spaces, as well as securing your next reservation, feel free to call 416-214-1840 or email meetings@rostiegroup.com.