It might be funny to come out with such a topic but don’t be surprised if I tell you that most people who organize a meeting do not have any form of meeting agenda. But that does not mean they do not have anything to discuss. They do! But without any agenda, how can they remember so much? They might be able to remember 1 or 2 issues for the meeting but does that mean they only have that 1 or 2 issues to discuss? Nope. They just can’t remember the rest of the issues.

Also, without an agenda, they will not know which issue is more important and urgent. They might end up spending a lot of time discussing an issue which is not important at all just because they cannot remember the other more important issues. If they do have an agenda, they will realize it and can choose to skip the not so important issues first.

Having an agenda is also important when you go for a meeting with the client. It helps to keep you focused and organized, and also gives a positive image to the client. Imagine if you do not have any agenda during the meeting. You asked the client 2 questions and after the meeting, you realized you have few other questions. You ended up calling the client to ask the remaining questions. Do you think this is a good move? I doubt so.

So, if you are the type who do not like to prepare meeting agendas, maybe it is time to change your behavior now. Be more efficient and most importantly, learn to respect time – other people’s time and also your own time.

Hope it helps.