Suggested Ground Rules for Meetings...and Life as well.

These were Suggested Ground Rules at a training conference I recently attended, and I feel it applies to more than just meetings.

• Actively contribute to discussions.
• Volunteer for assignments.
• Discourage outside interruptions.
• Attend Meetings.
• Start and end meetings on time.
• Focus on agenda items during meeting.
• Solve the problem or make improvements in accordance with the four keys to quality.
• No "war stories"
• Listen and show respect for the views of other members.
• Concentrate on what is being said and allow the person who is speaking to finish.
• Complete work assignments on time.
• Avoid disruptive side conversations.
• Evaluate each idea on its own merit.
• Make decisions based on Facts.
• Come prepared.
• Keep comments brief.

I feel many can benefit just by following these rules, even if only a handful are applied.  Applying all would be most beneficial.

- MO