Meeting Protocol for the Utterly Confused

Bob's Guide to Surviving Meetings with Minimal Brain Damage

Step 1: Arrival

Arrive at the meeting room, but not too early. You don't want to be that guy.

Turn off your phone. No, really, turn it off.
Find a seat, but not the one next to the coffee machine. Trust us.

Learn more about optimal arrival and departure strategies.

Step 2: Engagement

Pay attention, but not too much. You don't want to be that guy either.

Take notes, but only if you're sure you won't need to refer to them in 5 minutes.
Nod enthusiastically, but not too enthusiastically. You don't want to be that person.

Get more tips on engagement, or not.

Step 3: Conclusion

Wrap it up, but not too tightly. You don't want to be that guy again.

Acknowledge the meeting's existence, but don't promise anything.
Stand up, stretch, and leave. Or stay if there's food involved.

Learn more about clever ways to exit a meeting.