Effective Team Meetings: A Survival Guide for New Managers

So, you’re a new manager, and suddenly it’s your job to run team meetings. No pressure, right? Except it feels like herding cats while trying to look like you know what you’re doing. Here’s the good news: running a great meeting isn’t magic—it’s all about preparation, focus, and a little help from my free Team Meeting Template (because let’s face it, you’ve got enough on your plate).

Keep It Focused

Every meeting needs a purpose. Is it a status update, brainstorming session, or decision-making moment? If it’s “just because we always have this meeting,” cancel it. Your team will love you for it.

Prep Like a Pro

Share an agenda ahead of time so people know what to expect and can actually come prepared. Use my free template to outline key topics, assign discussion leads, and keep things on track. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

Respect the Clock

Start on time. End on time. If the meeting drags on, you’ll lose attention faster than you can say, “Can we circle back on this?”

Wrap It Up

End with clear action items. Who’s doing what, and by when? If no one leaves with a next step, what was the point?

Meetings don’t have to be the thing your team dreads. With a little structure and intentionality, you can make them effective, focused, and maybe even productive (gasp!). Download my free Team Meeting Template and give it a try—your team (and your sanity) will thank you.