Corporate America is grappling with an epidemic of meeting bloat. Workers spend an average of 21% of their time in meetings – a figure that has risen by 8% in the past decade. This is not just an American problem; it’s a global one. The issue is not simply the volume of meetings, but their inefficiency. Many are too long, poorly structured, or involve too many participants.
The pandemic has exacerbated the situation. With the shift to remote working, meetings have increased in frequency, duration, and size. The convenience of virtual meetings can lead to overuse, with the average worker spending 14% more time in meetings since the onset of Covid-19.
The cost of this meeting bloat is significant. It’s estimated to cost the US economy $399 billion annually. This doesn’t include the indirect costs, such as reduced productivity and employee burnout.
Addressing this issue requires a cultural shift. Experts suggest setting a meeting agenda, limiting the number of attendees, and assigning roles. Additionally, considering whether a meeting is necessary or if the same outcome could be achieved via email or instant messaging can help. Encouraging shorter, more efficient meetings can also be beneficial.
The challenge is significant, but with the right approach, meeting bloat can be tackled. A more efficient, productive, and balanced working environment is possible.
Go to source article: https://www.vice.com/en/article/5d9wqn/meeting-bloat-has-taken-over-corporate-america-can-it-be-stopped