Credit at work.(SELECTED * TOPIC)

Dear Andy,

When departmental meetings are held, I leave feeling they've been unproductive. What advice do you have to ensure internal meetings are as effective as possible?

Your perception is probably correct. Many employees joke that these gatherings are better suited for daydreaming or doodling than for accomplishing anything of value. In fact, in a survey of more than 600 professionals conducted by Robert Half International, 27 percent of respondents felt meetings that last too long are the top time-waster at work. In another survey by our company, executives reported that they waste 7.8 hours per week, or 2.3 months per year, in unnecessary meetings.

So why are business gatherings usually so ineffective? Lack of planning is probably the most common culprit. Despite the popular notion, meetings can serve a productive purpose. Here are some tips:

* Determine if the meeting is necessary. is there a compelling reason to have one? Every meeting should have a purpose that everyone can relate to and support. Consider whether the issue at hand can be addressed more effectively through one-on-one discussion, informal gatherings or e-mail communication.

Also avoid scheduling meetings at the last minute--otherwise attendees will not have adequate time to prepare.

* Focus on the primary objective when selecting participants. Determine who will be impacted by the topic of discussion, is attendance critical for all or would a memo detailing the meeting's outcome suffice for some? Keep in mind that some people may feel slighted if they're not asked to attend. When in doubt, explain the purpose of the meeting and let ...