Ending a Meeting: The Art of Adjournment

The Importance of Adjournment

When it comes to conducting a successful meeting, many people focus solely on the content of the meeting and forget about the importance of adjournment. However, the way a meeting is ended can be just as important as its content. A well-executed adjournment can leave attendees feeling motivated and energized, while a poorly executed one can leave them feeling frustrated and disengaged. In this article, we will discuss the art of adjournment and how to make sure your meetings end on a positive note.

Elements of a Successful Adjournment

There are several elements that contribute to a successful adjournment. The first is timing. Make sure to end the meeting on time or slightly ahead of schedule. This shows respect for participants' time and also helps prevent the meeting from dragging on too long, which can lead to fatigue and distraction.

The second element is clarity. Make sure to summarize the main points of the meeting and any decisions that were made. You can do this verbally or by providing a written summary. This helps attendees remember what was discussed and what action items they need to follow up on.

The final element is energy. End the meeting on a high note by thanking attendees for their participation and acknowledging any contributions or successes. This helps build morale and keeps the participants engaged for the next meeting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Despite the importance of adjournment, there are several common mistakes that people make when ending a meeting. The first is skipping the adjournment altogether. Many people simply end the meeting abruptly without any formal closure, leaving attendees feeling confused and unsure about what to do next.

The second mistake is ending the meeting on a negative note. This can happen when attendees are bogged down by unresolved issues or disagreements. To avoid this, make sure to address any issues or concerns in a constructive manner and end the meeting on a positive note, even if some issues remain unresolved.

The final mistake is failing to follow up. Even after a successful adjournment, it's important to follow up with attendees to ensure that action items are completed and goals are achieved. This helps build trust and accountability and ensures that the meeting was not just a waste of time.

Conclusion

Adjournment may seem like a small part of a meeting, but it can have a big impact on its overall success. By following the elements of a successful adjournment and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your meetings end on a positive note and that attendees leave feeling motivated and energized.