Navigating a Meeting
Navigating meetings at your first real job can feel daunting, but with some pre-meeting preparation and a strategic mindset, you can make a strong impression and feel confident during discussions.
Prepare in Advance
Review the agenda to learn the focus of the meeting so that you can engage more effectively and anticipate potential questions or discussion points.
If there are specific areas relevant to your role, gather information and bring any needed materials. Be ready with any project updates that pertain to the agenda.
Consider what you need to get out of the meeting, whether it’s looking for clarification, an opportunity to contribute, or a a chance to learn.
Arrive a few minutes early to show respect for others' time and allow yourself to settle in before the meeting starts.
Have a notebook, pen, or laptop for taking notes. If you were assigned any pre-work or action items, bring those materials as well.
Take Notes + Ask Relevant Questions
During the meeting, focus on listening. This shows that you’re engaged and allows you to ask thoughtful questions.
Take notes on key points, action items, or questions. This will help you keep track of what to follow up on or research after the meeting.
Observe how others interact. Are there unspoken rules, key decision-makers, or people who lead discussions? Observing will help you understand when and how to contribute effectively.
If you don’t understand a point or need more details to complete a task, ask clear and concise questions to show initiative and engagement.
If you have valuable insights or ideas, share them at an appropriate point in the conversation. Be mindful not to interrupt others and make sure to save non-essential questions for after the meeting.
Follow Up and Follow Through
Before the meeting wraps up, make sure you’re clear on any tasks or next steps assigned to you. If you’re uncertain, it’s okay to ask for confirmation.
Delivering on assignments and following up with team members demonstrates your reliability and strengthens trust in your capabilities.