"Who's on Your Committee"

by Claudia Sundberg, C.L.A., from Williams, Jilek, Lafferty, Gallagher, & Scott Co., L.P. A

There was a huge task to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody thought Somebody would do it, Anybody could have done it---but Nobody did it. Well, Somebody was very angry and upset because after all, it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized the Everybody would not do it. So, Everybody blamed Somebody and Nobody asked Anybody!

Does this remind you of some committees you belong to? Nothing gets done and you leave feeling it was a big waste of time. We have all been there and experienced first hand, Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. Meetings should be useful and productive. Here are a few reminders to keep in mind when doing committee work. Always have a written agenda and make sure everybody receives a copy before the meeting so that if there is something Somebody needs to do before the meeting it can be done. Everybody will be focused on the agenda and wasted time can be avoided. Arrive early. There is always something to be done before the meeting starts such as arranging the room, making coffee, setting up equipment, passing out handouts. Start on time/end on time. Everyone's time is valuable. It is inconsiderate to show up late. It is up to the chairperson to be sure the meeting starts on time so that a habit is not developed whereby meetings start 10 or 15 minutes late. Meetings should last no more than an hour or an hour and a half at the most. There is a saturation point. If your meetings are marathon meetings, you need to review and revise your agenda. Be a good participant. Participation is the key word. Don't just be a somebody, nobody, anybody or everybody. You are expected to contribute to the success of the meeting. Be a good facilitator. State the goals and objectives of the meeting, keep on track and be sure everyone contributes and is involved. Some people wait to be asked. As a facilitator or chairperson you need to ask! Summarize and follow up. Always review the results of the meeting, what deadlines have been set and who has been assigned responsibilities. A follow-up plan will insure that things get done.

Why not evaluate your next meeting and see if you can't promote better participation, follow through and good participation.