Declining Totally is Better than Attending Partially.

We’re only human, we should act that way.

I schedule very few meetings. For the most part, I find them to be the least effective way to get things done. I’m mindful to always provide a purpose, scope and keep invitees to a minimum. This is a courtesy that anyone arranging a meeting should provide. Offering sufficient information for invitees to prepare, consider the topic to be discussed and decline if they don’t think they’re needed.

Time is precious, we should be helping each other protect this valuable resource.

Earlier in my career, if I received a blank invite I would decline immediately with no questions asked and no reason given. Now that I’m a bit more seasoned, I will ask for clarification before abstaining. I want to ensure I’m making the most of my time and energy towards meaningful work.

DISCLAIMER: No meetings are mandatory. None. Zip. Zilch. Attendance is aways a choice.

If you’re going to accept, be prepared, engaged, supportive and participatory.… at the very least pay attention. “Sorry, I was multi-tasking” is not an acceptable response when a direct question is asked of you. If you have something more important to do, please go do it.

If the topic isn’t important enough to hold your full attention, you’re in the wrong meeting.

This is not a complaint, everyone’s time is valuable and there’s a lot to get done. I give you the permission to decline my meeting. Do exactly what you think brings the most value and do it to the best of your ability.

Psst! Junior professionals that get roped into regular status meetings…you don’t need to go. If you’re knocking it out of the park and you’ve already communicated your status via E-Mail, TEAMS or Slack… keep at it. It will get you a lot farther in your career, trust me.