I have never been a big fan of pointless meetings at the workplace so was very interested to read this article published on the BBC website based on research from the University of Malmo in Sweden. Their research suggests that meetings at work should be seen as a form of “therapy” rather than about decision-making and that meetings provide an outlet for people to show off their status or to express frustration.
Prof Hall has investigated an apparent contradiction in how people can have a low opinion of work meetings, yet their numbers keep increasing. The political scientist says the rise in meetings reflects changes in the workforce - with fewer people making things and an increase in those involved in "meetings-intense" roles such as strategists, advisers, consultants and managers.
He said "Many managers don't know what to do and when they are "unsure of their role", they respond by generating more meetings.”
Overall a very interesting article and well worth a read. I am not convinced by his arguments but it does make me think about the role of meetings in our organization more.
Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.