Step 2: Pretending to Work

Now that you've managed to drag your colleagues into a meeting, it's time to pretend you're doing work.

Tip 1: Stare intensely at your computer screen, making sure to appear engrossed in something, anything. A blank Word document or a spreadsheet with a single formula is a good starting point.

• Click on something, anywhere. It doesn't matter what. Clicking is work, right?
• Make sure your chair creaks loudly to create an atmosphere of productivity.

If someone tries to talk to you, politely interrupt and say, "Can we discuss this further during the break?" or "I need to focus."

Now you're doing great! You're well on your way to becoming a meeting master.

Continue to Step 3: The Art of Pretending You're Listening