Types of Meetings

Types of Meetings

Face-to-Face Meetings

  • Also known as in-person meetings, these require all participants to be physically present in the same location.
  • These offer the advantage of non-verbal communication, including body language and facial expressions, which enhance understanding and rapport.
  • However, they may require significant planning, especially if participants need to travel, and can be difficult to organise if people are in different locations.

Virtual Meetings

  • Held over the internet using video conferencing tools such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
  • This format is becoming increasingly popular, as it saves travel time and costs and allows people from different locations to meet easily.
  • On the downside, potential connection issues and limited non-verbal communication can cause misunderstandings.

Informal Meetings

  • Characterised by relaxed rules and a casual atmosphere, often held in non-office settings such as cafes.
  • They encourage open communication and creativity, but may lack structure and might not be appropriate for all types of discussion.

Formal Meetings

  • Usually scheduled in advance with a set agenda; more rigid in terms of rules and procedures.
  • They facilitate structured discussion and decision-making, but could be seen as less comfortable or stifling creativity compared to informal meetings.

Brainstorming Meetings

  • Usually casual and relaxed, with the express purpose of generating new ideas.
  • This type of meeting encourages active participation from all attendees but may result in lots of ideas without clear next steps.

Decision-Making Meetings

  • Aimed at reaching a consensus or making decisions on specific issues.
  • These typically require thorough preparation and follow-up but are crucial for moving projects or initiatives forward.

Progress or Update Meetings

  • Regular meetings intended to review progress or provide updates on a particular project or line of work.
  • Can be considered time-consuming, especially if updates are minor. However, they are essential for keeping everyone informed and aligned.

Staff or Team Meetings

  • Regular meetings with all members of a team or department.
  • These provide a platform for sharing information, discussing issues, and ensuring everyone is working towards common goals.

Training Meetings

  • Designed to provide knowledge or skills to attendees.
  • These require significant planning, but are crucial for continuous learning, development and improving workplace performance.