Meetings are a time to discuss important work issues. To get the most out of meeting time, attendees should abide by meeting procedures and protocols for a smooth, uninterrupted work session.

Communication

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Meeting policies and procedures call for the use of good communication skills. This includes speaking clearly, being an active listener and making sure your body language suggests an interest in the discussion. It is also in good form to stay awake.

Professionalism

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You should always be professional during meetings. Arrive on time and be prepared to discuss your share of the presentation. If you are the meeting's chairman, provide the group with an agenda.

General Courtesy

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Attendees should silence their smartphones and any other communication tools they bring with them. According to an article in The New York Times, some companies have formal policies mandating that employees turn their devices off during meetings.

Types

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The type of meeting you conduct will determine which procedures and protocols to apply to the meeting. For instance, conference calls have procedures and protocols related to telephone etiquette that don’t apply to face-to-face meetings.

Considerations

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To maximize your meeting’s efficiency, quickly review the procedures and protocols to the group before beginning the meeting. This way, everyone is sure to know what the rules are.