Daily Archives: April 14, 2010

Closed Door Meetings: Should You Trust Them?

Meetings are a workday staple for most companies. With weekly staff updates, special projects, and everything in between, many employees are in and out of meetings all week long. In fact, results of a survey conducted by Microsoft found that respondents spend nearly six hours a week in meetings. That adds up to nearly two months a year in meetings!

Feeling overwhelmed by the number of meetings you attend each week? Check out these tips for charming your way out of some of them.

With so many meetings to attend, you’re certain to have your fair share of closed-door appointments, where the information exchanged and shared is confidential. But, what happens when you’re the one providing the confidential information? Can you trust that what you share in meetings stays behind closed doors?

No matter what type of meeting you attend, whether it’s a one-on-one with your manager, a professional development meeting, or an impromptu gathering in the cube with co-workers, it’s important to always be selective about what you say and how you say it, especially if that information could be harmful to another staff member, your employer, or your team. So, if you need to address a concern that involves a co-worker with your supervisor, be open and honest when you meet with them, but stick to the facts. Don’t over share, and avoid making things personal when possible. And, don’t let your guard down during a casual employee gathering. Be mindful of the conversation you have. In any meeting, keep your comments relevant and constructive. And, of course, always keep the information that others share with you strictly confidential.

When you’re guarded about what you say and how you say it, employers will trust you and your judgment. And, for employers, trust is critical. So, remember, to be an employee your company can rely on, choose your words wisely whether you’re attending a closed door meeting or just a quick chit chat at the water cooler.