Comments on: Meetings vs. Work

By: David Bradley

David Bradley — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 19:46:23 +0000

Hmmmm….it’s a perennial problem. Somehow I’ve managed to manage my career to the point where I do more writing than anything else and basically side-step inwarranted meetings and conference calls as much as possible. Insist on first contact by email and it’s possible that new clients will find this a preferable method of discussion, there’s always IM, which is kind of half way between and you can always pick up the phone if there’s a sticky point that really does need a voice at each end to clarify.

Just my tuppence worth

By: Matthew Stibbe

Matthew Stibbe — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:40:19 +0000

For clarity, I don’t think this is my clients’ problem and I don’t want to blame them in any way. I need to sort myself out and improve the way I communicate and plan my life.

By: Mat

Mat — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 12:22:32 +0000

If the issue is that you hate meetings, then try and limit your client communication to the phone and email as much as possible (sorry if that’s a “duh!” comment).

However, if the issue is that you lose money attending client meetings, then charge as much for travel and meetings as you would for writing. That would focus your clients’ minds on whether they really need face-to-face time with you.

If you need to meet a client to develop a business relationship, then that’s just a cost of sale.

By: Santosh

Santosh — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 22:41:03 +0000

I have collected a few articles on meetings. This is part of my blog where I collect great articles including yours. Hope this will help http://www.artofspeaking.org/2007/01/week-5.html

By: Zach Everson

Zach Everson — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 14:50:25 +0000

Sorry to read that you’re getting dragged into meetings. I’ve been a full-time freelance writer and editor for a few years and have probably been to less than 10 meetings in that time.

The best way to make meetings tolerable, however, is to ensure that it has a goal, that all participants are aware of that goal, and that the person running the meeting has no problem cutting off worthless discussions.

By: Suzanne Ryan

Suzanne Ryan — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:33:42 +0000

I hit my threshold on this a couple of months ago. A client had me ride 40 minutes down the highway during morning rush hour–only to shake hand with the new marketing consultant, chat for 10 minutes, and drive home.

I now state in my contract that my fee includes atwo meetings, and anything beyond that will be charged at my hourly fee.

This gets read out loud to them in case they can’t read the “fine print.” lol

By: Bill Harper

Bill Harper — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:31:03 +0000

One method I heard of was someone writing a computer program to show just how much the meeting actually cost.

As each person walked into the meeting, they had to type in their hourly rate. Then, as each minute ticked over, the computer showed in huge text just how much money the meeting had cost so far.

After that meetings became shorter, less frequent, and more targeted.

By: Dawud Miracle

Dawud Miracle — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 15:10:12 +0000

Jeremy has a great idea. I’ve found it really cuts down meeting lag. As does no social comforts like food and beverages, except maybe water.

Other things…set realistic agendas and post them ahead of time (been suggested). Also be firm in how much time you have to spend with clients and don’t be available over the time.

With that, make it clear that ‘we have xx meetings to solve your problems/identify your needs/establish solutions. Anything beyond those meetings is an added cost the project. I do this and it works to keep meetings on course. I layout for my clients the steps before we even begin and make it clear that if more time is needed it’s on their dime.

Bottom line, clearly defined and communciated processes will help your projects stay focused and your meetings become as meaningful as possible.

By: Matthew Stibbe

Matthew Stibbe — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 10:17:12 +0000

I’m touched by the responses – it’s nice to know I’m not alone in this! Some good suggestions here. I think the real answer lies in ‘just saying no’. But charging extra for meetings sounds attractive too Matthew

By: Sherrilynne Starkie

Sherrilynne Starkie — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 09:01:19 +0000

I agree with you entirely. Meetings suck the life blood out of any project; I avoid them at all costs. I have a different rate for f2f time v desk work. Wikis can also be useful. Usually if you explain to the client that the fee is used up with you sitting in traffic, they’ll usually agree to a conference call. Still face time is important so do it every once in a while if you can. Try to make it social though…so you can concentrate on the relationship.