Three reasons not to run your own webmeetings

Aug 28 2012 by Wayne Turmel Print This Article

One of the common excuses people use for not using web platforms like GoToMeeting or WebEx for team meetings is that it's too much work to run the technology, keep to the agenda, facilitate discussions and not have blood ooze out of your ears all at the same time.

I have two things to say about this. First, suck it up, you're a manager now. Secondly, you're right, it's a lot of trouble - so don't try to do it all yourself.

That might seem a bit facetious, and a bit contradictory, but I'm deadly serious. Just because it's "your meeting" doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself. In fact, here are three good reasons you shouldn't run the whole meeting yourself:

1. Use it as a developmental opportunity for your team members

Running a meeting is a key skill for anyone looking to become a leader. These days, so is the ability to use common web communication tools. By asking people to assist you in running these meetings you can teach them the basics of putting together and running a good meeting (things like a decent agenda and prepping for discussions) as well as taking some of the load off yourself.

If this makes you feel less guilty, you can file it under "delegating for development", which is what all the HR guides say you should be doing anyway. Lift some of the pressure off yourself and satisfy your performance development plan at the same time. That's efficiency.

2. You'll find you have better conversations if you can actually, you know, focus

I'm on your side here. It's actually physically arduous to try and listen effectively while typing, moving slides or hoping to heaven the technology is working. So here's an idea: don't even bother. Really.

Trying to type, listen and spell correctly on a white board is a fool's errand. Ask another attendee to take care of the grunt work (like using the White board) so you can do what you know adds the most value - calling on people, clarifying statements and getting the best input you can.

3. Help your team get to know each other better which will lead to better communication

Having a different team member serve as "host " for each meeting actually addresses some common team problems. We all know that remote teams don't always know each other, and too much time is spent in meetings in status updates and administrivia. By having a different team member (or even team) serve as cohost for the meeting, you can put them in the spotlight. Instead of doing updates on every team, every time, maybe the host team gets their moment to shine. Teams thrive when they know that others on the team are competent and motivated.

This is a way for each member over time to prove themselves to their teammates. This not only gives you some breathing room, but has long-term teambuilding benefits as well.

I know that you work really hard and try to be self-sufficient. I applaud that, but here's a chance to make your load a little lighter while actually doing some of the team and personal development you know you should be doing anyway.

You're welcome. Just trying to help.

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About The Author

Wayne Turmel
Wayne Turmel

For almost 30 years, Wayne Turmel has been obsessed with how people communicate - or don't - at work. He has spent the last 20 years focused on remote and virtual work, recognized as one of the top 40 Remote Work Experts in the world. Besides writing for Management Issues, he has authored or co-authored 15 books, including The Long-Distance Leader and The Long-Distance Teammate. He is the lead Remote and Hybrid Work subject matter expert for the The Kevin Eikenberry Group. Originally from Canada, he now makes his home in Las Vegas, US.