five rules for better meetings

Many people's dream job would be several steps closer to reality if they didn't have to sit through pointless meetings in their current job. David Bastone, again, says it best at Right Reality in this entry.

I'm of the opinion that one of the most crucial skills of leadership is running an efficient meeting. I think his third and fourth rules are especially important: I've found my main task as a meeting leader is keeping everyone focused on the agenda (sometimes it's all the work!), and it is true that if "power corrupts, PowerPoint corrupts absolutely."

As far as I'm concerned, PPT should be ditched from all presentations where a visual element isn't essential. And giving them as handouts during your talk in the meeting? Only do it if you want them to read instead of listen. Tip: if you want them to remember what you say, rehearse. And give your meeting mates notes afterward, not during.