Techniques for Avoiding Meetings
Meetings are like a plague. They're a reminder that even in this modern era of instant messaging and email, someone still thinks it's a good idea to get everyone together in a crowded, fluorescently lit conference room to discuss something that could've been handled in a 5-line email.
Technique 1: The Art of the Sudden Departure
Leave early, but do it with a flourish. Make sure to turn off your computer, gather your belongings, and make eye contact with your coworkers as you make a dramatic exit. It's like you're a character in a French farce, but without the charm.
Subtechnique 1: The Sudden Departure with a Fake Meeting
Just leave, but schedule another meeting for 30 minutes later. This will give the illusion that you're not avoiding the meeting, but rather, you're just taking an unscheduled break to recharge. Bonus points if you send out a fake agenda in advance.
Learn more about Technique 2: The Art of the Slight Distraction