Meetings

How to stop rambling in meetings

By Nia Okafor · 4 min read

Being concise makes you sound confident and saves time for everyone in the room.

A few small habits before you speak can turn a wandering point into a clear one.

Five takeaways

Write your point first: Write your point in one sentence before you speak so you know your destination.
Pause two seconds: Pause for two seconds before starting so the room can actually listen.
Limit to 60 seconds: Limit yourself to 60 seconds so you get to the point fast.
End with what you need: End with what you need from others so the point has a purpose, not just airtime.
Write a follow-up email: Write a short follow-up email so the point survives the meeting.

Concise isn't a personality trait, it's a habit. Practice the small steps and the room will notice.