Dana Pigford Brownlee's Page

The Problem:
We’ve all attended meetings where participants were asked to read a document, do some research, or conduct some other “homework” prior to the meeting but very few people actually did it. Obviously, the intent of assigning the pre-work is to ensure that all attendees are prepared which should result in a quick, efficient meeting… right???? Wrong!!! Too often some attendees don’t complete the assignment as requested which drags down the entire group. Before you lead your next meeting,… Continue

The Problem:
Let’s face it – one of the reasons why many people hate attending meetings is that they too often drag ON and ON and ON with no end in sight! We’re all frustrated by the meeting leader who drifts casually from one topic to another during the meeting with very little regard for time. Not only does this waste everyone’s time but it also irritates participants (who may become turned off and hesitant to participate in future meetings). You don’t want to be one of those meeting leaders.… Continue

The Problem:
Do you ever feel that you’re herding a group of feisty cats instead of leading a meeting because your team members simply can’t agree? Well, take comfort in knowing that this common problem plagues most meeting facilitators at one point or another. Indeed, if your group is disagreeing vehemently (but respectfully), that’s a sign of healthy conflict…congratulations, you’re likely on your way to some great ideas and solutions! Unfortunately as meeting facilitators, we often need to gu… Continue

The Problem:
Does your group ever find itself engaged in a deep conversation on the viability of one vendor over another when you’re supposed to be prioritizing a list of requirements that have to be finalized within the next two hours? Worse yet, sometimes, groups allow themselves to become sidetracked by the latest office gossip, personal discussions, or anything other than what they’re supposed to be covering on the agenda. Too often, the meeting leader anxiously sits on the sidelines hoping… Continue