What Not To Do In The Meeting Room

No matter what type of office you work in, chances are you have your fair share of meetings to attend. And while you might bemoan the fact that you’re forced to spend hours each week holed up in conference rooms, the reality is that it’s your obligation, as an employee, to attend meetings as necessary. That said, the way you act during those meetings could impact the way others view you professionally, so be sure to avoid these unfavorable behaviors that’ll only make you look bad.

1. CONSTANTLY CHECKING YOUR EMAIL OR TEXT MESSAGES

When you’re one of many attendees at a given meeting, and not a particularly active participant, it’s natural to be drawn to your mobile phone, especially when it buzzes with new emails or texts. But while the occasional glance during an extended sit-down may be acceptable, don’t be that person whose eyes are glued to a cellphone the entire time. Unless you’re the CEO of a major corporation, whatever messages are coming in during that hour can probably wait, and checking them constantly sends the message that you clearly aren’t interested in the discussion at hand.

2. FALLING ASLEEP

Sometimes, meetings are boring. But letting yourself nod off during them just isn’t okay. If you’re tired coming into a meeting, whether from general exhaustion or a particularly bad night’s sleep, bring a caffeinated beverage or even a bottle of ice-cold water to keep yourself awake. And if you really feel yourself fading, excuse yourself to use the restroom, splash some water on your face, and then come back and power through.

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