Dos and don'ts for team building: Why staff meetings matter

Held every four to six weeks, staff meetings serve a critical function in general and specialty practices. These gatherings improve communication, inspire cooperation, and help build a stronger team. The ultimate goal: to bring the entire staff together for the purpose of practice and staff building.

Wrap up with next steps and assignments. A staff meeting that ends inconclusively is not worth holding in the first place. Since there is considerable time before the next staff meeting, insist on a solid action plan when the meeting ends. All team members should be aware what is expected of them for the next meeting.

Don't forget what you've discussed. What is the point of having a productive meeting if what was discussed is forgotten forever because no one took good notes? A written record of each meeting provides documentation for future reference. It also prevents anyone from misinterpreting what was discussed.