Elevate Your Meetings: The Power of Pen and Paper

Hey there, Kevin Johnson from Leverage Consulting here. Today, I want to share a strategy that can revolutionize the way you run your meetings. It's simple, old-school, and yet incredibly effective: bring a pen and paper.

You might be thinking, "Kevin, really? Pen and paper?" Yes, really. Here's why this small habit can make a massive difference.

The Problem with Most Meetings

Too often, meetings lack focus and purpose. Whether it's a quick morning huddle or an extended monthly review, the root of the problem is the same. Leaders, owners, and managers show up without a pen and paper, which signals they don't have a clear agenda or desired outcomes. If you, as a leader, aren't prepared, how can you expect your team to be?

When team members show up empty-handed, it communicates a lack of preparation and intention. They're there to find out what's happening, not to actively contribute or engage. This passive attitude can turn your meeting into a time sink rather than a productivity booster.

Why Pen and Paper Matters

Every meeting is an investment. You're setting aside valuable, income-generating time to focus on your team. To make the most of this investment, you need to ensure that your meetings are action-oriented and productive. This is where pen and paper come in.

1. Concrete Agenda and Outcomes

Showing up with pen and paper forces you to be prepared. It means you have a concrete agenda and predetermined outcomes. You're not just winging it; you have a plan. This sets the tone for the meeting and ensures that every minute is spent purposefully.

2. Active Participation

When your team brings pen and paper, it shows they're ready to contribute. They're not just passive listeners; they're active participants. This small act of writing things down helps them engage more deeply and think critically about what's being discussed.

3. Accountability and Follow-Through

A pen and paper also mean there are tangible takeaways from the meeting. Every team member should leave with at least one actionable item. This could be a new task, a piece of feedback, or an idea to implement. By writing it down, they're more likely to remember and follow through, ensuring that the meeting has a lasting impact.

The ROI of Going Old School

In the age of digital everything, it's easy to overlook the power of something as basic as pen and paper. But don't underestimate it. This simple tool can drastically improve the effectiveness of your meetings. Here's how:

Enhanced Focus: Writing by hand keeps you and your team more focused and engaged.

Better Retention: Notes taken by hand are easier to remember than those typed out.

Clearer Communication: A prepared agenda and written notes ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Making It a Standard

To maximize the impact and ROI of your meetings, make pen and paper a standard practice. As a leader, set the example. Show up prepared and expect the same from your team. Create a culture where meetings are seen as opportunities to achieve and learn, not just time to check off a box.

By going old school, you'll see a significant improvement in the productivity and outcomes of your meetings. It's a small change that can lead to big results. So, next time you head into a meeting, don't forget your pen and paper. Trust me, it's a game-changer.

Stay productive, stay focused, and let's make every meeting count.

Kevin Johnson

Leverage Consulting