How to avoid meetings

Boy oh boy do they love their meetings. Sometimes even without a clear purpose or agenda. Rather than say “Shoot me now,” you can say this…

Suggest alternatives

“Instead of meeting to brainstorm, how about you delegate idea generation to one person, and at our next official meeting, we can review?”

Interrogate

“Do I need to be there?” or “What’s the thinking on having me there?” or “What’s the agenda and how do you want me to contribute?” 

If the answer is vague, that’s your sign they haven’t thought it through. 

Decline to attend while offering to help

“Thanks but I’m slammed working on another project right now. I’ll be happy to review the minutes and weigh in after.”

Be honest (but still helpful)

“I have to be honest. I want to be helpful but I hate meetings. If my presence is important, I’ll be there, but are there other ways I could pitch in?”

There’s a way to say you want to help, but not through another painful, unproductive, or silly meeting. 

Saying no to something is saying yes to something else, so go ahead and give yourself room for more important work.