Follow up!

The follow up is arguably the most important part of a meeting. It is when meeting leaders and managers confirm that action items are being worked on. It keeps the energy created during the meeting focused on those action items developed and accomplishing the goals stated.

The minutes should be distributed to everyone within a couple days after the meeting. This works as a reminder so that there can be no excuses for forgotten responsibilities. “People will most effectively contribute to results if they get started on action items right away…A delay in the distribution of minutes will hurt your results since most people wait for the minutes to arrive before they begin to tackle their commitments” (Heathfield, n.d.).

The meeting leader can improve the results of the meeting by speaking with or calling those who were responsible for certain action items before the next meeting.  Their goal is to ensure that progress is being made and that tasks are underway. They may also offer their assistance if possible or necessary.

References:

Heathfield, S. M. (n.d.). Effective meetings produce results: After the meeting. Retrieved from About.com: http://humanresources.about.com/od/meetingmanagement/a/meetings_work_3.htm