(Image: Thinkstock)
As an early careerists you may find that your boss wants you to attend many meetings, some of which are boring or irrelevant to your assigned work duties. Well, I have some news for you; and that is attending these meetings is often part of the socialization process for young employees. Â Your boss wants to expose you to these meetings because a lot of knowledge, information, and content are shared that can help you grow within the company. But you can’t grow if you’re not awake and attentive.
To avoid dozing off or being labeled as a rude youngster who goofs off on their smartphone during meetings, take advantage of the tips below.
- Get involved by asking questions. Speak up and ask basic questions that will help you stay awake and follow the meeting. You’ll notice that the more you talk and engage others, the more attentive you’ll be.
- Write things down. Take notes. Not only does this help you follow the meeting, it also helps you stay occupied since you’ll be writing.
- Make observations to learn about the company’s culture. Observe as much as you can so you can become more knowledgeable about the culture within your work climate. As a result, you’ll pick up on nuggets of information that will be helpful to you in the future.
- Chew gum or drink caffeine. Chewing gum or drinking caffeine can give you a stimulation boost. Go to your meetings prepared.
- Take a quick break. In most instances, it’s OK for you to excuse yourself from the meeting for a couple of minutes to run to the restroom or for a water break. Use this break to walk away for a little bit to gain some energy.
Be mindful that since you’re young, some of your older colleagues will be looking at you with great scrutiny, even during meetings. Consequently, you have to always be at the top of your game so you can demonstrate that you’re competent and qualified to be employed by the company. Use these career tips to help you learn, grow, and become recognized as a young leader on the rise.
Antoine Moss, Ph.D., (@2PositiveTweets) is a nationally recognized resource on internships, early career achievement, leadership and motivation. CEO and founder of CEO Style Consulting L.L.C., Moss empowers professionals and organizations to reach their full potential, and serves as speaker, workshop instructor and consultant. The author of Learn to Intern CEO Style, Moss has been a featured expert on outlets including Fox 8 TV News and George Fraser’s 2011 Power Networking Conference.
