Using meetings for change

Using meetings for change could have a big impact on the results of an organization and also make the change really quick if the meetings are well designed when it comes to methodology and timing. Many organizations contract a facilitator for their annual conference because they feel the need to set some time aside for participation from the staff. Sometimes they even use most of the time for collaboration and only have a few speakers, if any. That is great! Who would better know what is needed for the organization than the real experts, the employees. When the leaders are courageous and leave the space open for the staff to be really creative and work with what has heart and meaning for them, the results could be stunning. The leaders are very often surprised with the ideas and solutions that have come up and how quick and smooth the work was. They might also be surprised afterwards at how soon the decisions are implemented.

These annual conferences could be a door opener into a new way of working, where innovations and ideas are worked with on a daily basis. That is, if the conference is designed that way. The annual conference could have a lasting effect on how work is done in the organization. It could even change the culture or climate in the organization. Organizational change will get a quick start with a well done meeting that involves everyone in the organization and allows them to use their full potential. But it can not end there. These meetings need to continue for the whole year around and the meeting methods have to be brought into the organization and used over and over again.

All meeting methods are founded on values and assumptions so when you choose one that is founded on the values that people are a valuable asset and extremely important for the organization to thrive, the staff will know that and act accordingly. They will take responsibility, be creative, collaborate and try new paths. Sometimes they will fail and learn a lot. Most of the time they will be really successful and learn even more.

So are you thinking about the need for change in the organization? Start with a well-done meeting!