Got-a-Minute Meetings

"Got-a-minute meetings" are unscheduled interruptions where someone asks for a minute of your time, but the conversation often extends much longer. These interruptions are a major source of distraction and can keep you in a constant state of reactive work.

The Problem with "Got-a-Minute Meetings"

• Break Concentration: They pull you away from planned, focused work.
• Lack of Preparation: They are often unstructured and lack a clear agenda, leading to unproductive conversations.
• Constant Interruptions: A culture of "got-a-minute meetings" creates an environment where everyone is constantly interrupting each other.

The Solution

• Schedule Everything: Encourage team members to hold their thoughts, ideas, and non-urgent issues for regularly scheduled meetings (see Impact Areas).
• Dedicated Time for Interruptions: If necessary, schedule specific, short blocks of time during the day for "got-a-minute" style conversations.
• Discipline: It takes discipline from both management and staff to break the habit of constant interruptions.

By eliminating or controlling "got-a-minute meetings," you can create a more focused and productive work environment.