Problem-Solving Meeting Objective
Since the idea here is to get opinions and ideas from others, the meeting objective must reflect this. Meeting objectives start with an infinitive—to do something: to create ways to solve a problem, to gather ideas on an issue, to brainstorm on the impact of decisions already made—a definite "doing" activity. Don't choose wimpy statements, such as "to be aware of" or "to become familiar with"! Be as specific as possible, since the objective tells participants the content and the level of detail to expect in the meeting.
To practice creating problem-solving meeting objectives, go back to the topic selected at the start, look at the three main points covered, and select an idea to use for your problem-solving meeting. Examples follow.
Information meeting topic: To inform about effects of smoking on the job
| Key points: |
Workplace rules concerning smoking Time use/ productivity loss of smokers on breaks Effect on other employees and the organization
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Problem-solving meeting objective:
To find ways to equalize time use and work produced between smokers and nonsmokers Information meeting topic:
To inform about depression and recovery
| Key points: |
Recognizing depression in yourself and others Treatments for depression (drugs and therapy) Putting your life back together (with help)
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Problem-solving meeting objective:
To create ways to support depressed people in the workforce Information meeting topic:
To inform about using diet supplements to enhance performance in sports
| Key points: |
Type of supplements available Effect of supplements on sports performance Side effects and long-term use possibilities
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Problem-solving meeting objective:
To find ways to limit the use of dietary supplements in junior- and senior-high athletes Information meeting topic:
To inform about the depletion of old-growth timber through logging on public lands
| Key points: |
Benefits of old-growth forests Effects of logging on public lands Wood product awareness for consumers
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Problem-solving meeting objective:
To create ways to provide lumber without using old-growth timber on public lands Information meeting topic:
To inform about consumer credit card debt
| Key points: |
Extent of credit card debt in USA Reasons for mounting debt Effect of debt on the American working class
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Problem-solving meeting objective:
To create ways to encourage responsible use of credit cards
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In thinking about problem-solving meeting objectives, consider what question can be asked that will elicit opinions and ideas from attendees. Don't ask them to repeat back information from the first meeting; ask them an open question— one that requires explanation. If the question has multiple answers that will vary according to the perspective taken, then it's probably a good problem-solving meeting objective.
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