Who is the “customer” of a meeting?
This is an odd question.
Meetings are scheduled.
We attend.
Presentations are reviewed.
Conversations happen.
Updates are discussed.
Yet, why?
For whom?
Is the organizer the customer?
What did the customer hope the meeting would accomplish?
Did we accomplish that?
My Perspective
With anyone I talk to, meetings are a core source of frustration and burnout.
I think considering the customer of each event might shift perspective.
Teams could change their approach.
The focus would be on satisfying the customer request and then moving on.
Maybe some would realize several of their reoccurring meetings have no customer.
Some might understand that the need of the customer is security.
They need to be assured a project is on track.
Or, that they want to be more involved in the project – ensuring their voice is heard.
Whatever the need, once we understand it, we can address it more effectively.
Maybe a meeting is even the right answer for the need.
Your Turn
Are meetings a frustration for you?
Looking at your calendar today, who is the customer of each meeting?
Do you know what the customer needs from that meeting?