Today we’re hearing from the late Founder of Matterhorn, Greg Winteregg. This is a topic that’s crucial for any successful team: the weekly team meeting. We all know how essential these gatherings are for maintaining a strong and cohesive team, but what exactly should be covered during those meetings?
I’m going to walk you through the five key items that should be on the agenda for every weekly team meeting. So, let’s jump right in!
Why Weekly Team Meetings are Non-Negotiable
Picture this: Your team shows up to work each day, goes through the motions, and heads home without any real connection to their roles or the company’s mission. It sounds like a recipe for a disengaged workforce, doesn’t it? Well, that’s the result of inadequate communication between owners, managers, and team members. Weekly team meetings serve as a bridge to keep everyone on the same page, aligned with goals, and engaged in their work.
Item 1: Statistics – The Power of Accountability and Graphs
The first item on our weekly team meeting agenda is statistics. Every team member, regardless of their role, should have a measurable statistic that reflects their productivity. Whether it’s the number of phone calls answered, emails sent, or projects completed, these metrics provide tangible evidence of contribution. It’s crucial that these individual statistics are tracked, tallied, and presented in the form of a graph. This not only allows team members to visualize their progress but also creates healthy competition and a sense of accomplishment.
During the meeting, team members can proudly display their graphs and share strategies for boosting their numbers. This transparency and commitment to growth foster a positive atmosphere where each member feels empowered to contribute and achieve their targets.
Item 2: Program Steps, Action Steps, and Targets
Moving on to the second item, we delve into program steps, action steps, and targets. Team managers, no matter the team’s size, play a pivotal role in translating the company’s objectives into actionable tasks. Each manager should present the specific targets their team aims to achieve that week. For instance, a marketing team might be tasked with redesigning a webpage or creating a new promotional campaign.
During the meeting, managers can use this time to highlight the interdependencies between teams and projects. This encourages collaboration, cross-functional understanding, and collective problem-solving. When team members understand the bigger picture and how their efforts contribute to it, they become more invested in the team’s success and the organization’s overall mission.
Item 3: Embracing Challenges – Disagreements and Problems
Every organization faces challenges, disagreements, and problems. Our third agenda item addresses this reality. However, I believe in a rule that transforms complaints into constructive discussions: “No problems without solutions.” This means that team members can bring up issues during the meeting, but they must also present potential solutions.
Addressing challenges openly and constructively fosters a culture of innovation and improvement. It encourages team members to take ownership of their roles and contribute not only by identifying problems but also by actively participating in finding solutions. This practice transforms the team meeting into a space of collaboration and growth.
Item 4: Keeping Everyone Informed – General Announcements
In the fourth section of our agenda, we shift gears to general announcements. This is where team members can share updates, celebrate birthdays, or inform the group about company events. While seemingly simple, these announcements serve an important purpose: they keep everyone informed and connected to the larger organization.
Creating a sense of belonging and unity through general announcements enhances the overall team dynamic. It reminds team members that they’re part of a larger community, and it reinforces the idea that their contributions extend beyond the confines of their immediate responsibilities.
Item 5: Celebrating Wins – Sharing Success Stories
Finally, we come to the most uplifting agenda item: celebrating wins. Every team member should be encouraged to share a success story or testimonial from a client or customer. This is a powerful way to end the meeting on a high note. By showcasing individual and team successes, the meeting closes with a sense of accomplishment and pride. Team members feel valued, and they’re reminded of the tangible impact their work has on clients and the company as a whole.
Furthermore, this practice nurtures a culture of recognition and positivity. When team members regularly hear about the positive outcomes of their efforts, they’re motivated to go above and beyond.
Conclusion
A well-structured weekly team meeting is a cornerstone of a high-performing team. By following the five agenda items outlined above, you can transform these meetings from routine gatherings into impactful and meaningful moments that drive growth and collaboration. Remember, these meetings aren’t just a formality; they’re an investment in your team’s success and your company’s future.
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About Greg Winteregg
Greg founded Matterhorn Business Development to assist small business owners in growing their business and increasing profitability at the same time.
He was an internationally recognized lecturer, sales trainer, and management consultant who spent close to 30 years working with professionals and small business owners across the US and Canada.
In 2019, he authored his book “Fun at Work.”
