5 tips for hosting magical meetings

Okay, so maybe not magical…but there are things you can do to rev up engagement in your meetings. After all, it’s likely that you spend at least 25 percent of your professional time in meetings, so why not put a little work into making them more appealing for all those involved. To get you started, give the following five tips a try:

  1. Know your audience—Pay attention to every attendee as they walk through the door. Measure moods so you can adjust your approach. For example, if someone was stuck in traffic and appears irritated, give them a little space to decompress and then offer them coffee before starting. Little gestures can go a long way.
  2. Remove distractions—It can be hard enough to keep people’s attention, especially in longer meetings. Host your meetings (as often as you can) in a room set apart from high-traffic areas or where customers are visible. Also, ask everyone to silence their phones. Finally, provide a short agenda so people know what’s in store and have an idea of when they can get back to work. This can sometimes quell the urge to get back to it and allow employees to focus on the topic being discussed.
  3. Be prepared—There’s nothing more frustrating than sitting in a meeting where the host is completely unprepared—which can drag things out longer than need be. Come into your meeting armed with a structured agenda and stick to it.
  4. Open with a question—This sets the tone that everyone’s voice is important. By posing a question to the group, you jumpstart participation and support a more collaborative culture. Don’t be the only one to talk…that can get old very quickly.
  5. Put some focus on the big picture—Getting everyone passionate about individual projects and the business overall can be difficult. While you may be pitching a new product in a particular meeting, take some time to share a few reasons why employees should care about the project. Discuss revenue goals, product relevance or how customer pain points will be solved. A little big picture talk can quickly get everyone engaged and excited.

You don’t have to love them…but you can’t leave them either. Meetings are a part of the workday, so do what you can to improve the experience for everyone.

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Justice Bragg

Business Development Specialist, Florida

At work, Justice is passionate about helping the team make decisions and connections that propel the business forward. He prioritizes client satisfaction by serving as a medium to facilitate communication to the proper channels making sure every issue is properly addressed.

Outside of work, Justice enjoys exercising by going to the gym and playing pickleball with his friends. He is a self-proclaimed foodie who can’t say no to trying a new restaurant, sometimes even immediately regretting it.

Zachary Williams

Staff Accountant, Florida

At Level Accounting, Zach is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. He is dedicated to ensuring financial success for our clients.

Beyond the office walls, Zach’s weekends are filled with adventure, whether he’s exploring Florida’s hidden gems with his wife or battling it out in tournaments. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find him at the movies or casting his line out for a relaxing fishing session.

Melanie Jerome, MBA

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT, FLORIDA

Meet Melanie J, one of our senior staff accountants! Melanie ensures your financial health with precision and expertise. Beyond the office, she’s a true crime enthusiast who loves traveling and outdoor adventures. Whether she’s balancing books or exploring new trails, MJ’s dedication and skill set the standard for excellence in our team.

Seren Lunsford, MBA

STAFF ACCOUNTANT, INDIANA, QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PRO-ADVISOR

Meet Seren, one of our dedicated staff accountants here at level accounting! She is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. Outside of the office, you can find her on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, karting track, or baseball diamond, cheering on her two active boys. Seren is also a proud owner of two gentle giants, her beloved Great Danes. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into baking and decorating sugar cookies, always eager to experiment with new baked goods ideas and recipes. With her expertise in accounting and her passion for family, pets, and baking, Seren brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to our team.

Ivette Rivera

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, FLORIDA

Ivette Rivera is our Executive Assistant at Level Accounting, juggling schedules and keeping things running smooth.

When she’s not crushing it at work, Ivette is an avid participant in her church community. As a mom, she’s all about those quality moments, whether it’s baking up a storm, hitting the water for some kayaking fun, or just chilling with a good book or binge-worthy show. And let’s not forget her partners in crime at home: Harley Quinn, the fridge-raiding pit bull, and Atlas, the cat who rules the roost. Ivette’s all about that balance between work hustle and personal bliss.