Stand-Up Meetings at Work? Here's Why They're Beneficial

Meetings are an essential part of every business’ operations. Typically, meetings last for 30 minutes and longer, depending on the matters that need to be discussed. However, as new working trends are introduced nowadays, meetings become virtual, shorter, and still informative. One of the various meeting structures is the ‘stand up meetings” setup. Companies are implementing this because of the benefits it provides for the company.

What is a Stand-Up Meeting?

Typically, stand up meetings are informal in nature. They are described as a brief meeting, which usually goes for fifteen minutes, and is conducted on a regular basis. These make people get straight to the point with their insights and recommendations. The participants will stand during the meeting; that is why it is called ‘stand-up meetings.’

Stand-up meetings are easy to set up since they do not require a large amount of notice and space. They can be held anywhere in the office in just a matter of minutes.

The main purposes of stand-up meetings include discussing the challenges and achievements of specific tasks and progress. Such meetings also serve as a channel for employees to build interaction with each other. This can result in more positive company culture while fostering a harmonious working relationship, improving communication, and promoting understanding between the management and employees.

Benefits of Stand-Up Meetings

Listed below are the significant benefits of holding stand up meetings:

#1 Stand up meetings are often short and focused

Let’s admit it. We sometimes dread lengthy meetings. There are times when we spend so much time listening to concerns, yet, our suggestions are not being heard. Since stand-up meetings are shorter than traditional meetings, the participants tend to discuss the most vital concerns instead of the less important ones. The people should focus on discussing how to address particular challenges and recognize the progress they are making. This is also a time to keep the members of the organization updated with the company’s essential changes and accomplishments. It allows employees to get back to their work quickly after attaining the meeting’s objectives.

#2 Stand up meetings can be done in an informal setting

Stand up meetings are informal in nature. People are encouraged to give their ideas and share the challenges they are facing while at work. This characteristic of the meeting inspires all employees to share meaningful contributions and suggestions. Stand up meetings encourage collaboration and better communication among members of the organization. This absolutely improves efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

#3 Stand up meetings are flexible and can be run on short notice

A stand-up meeting needs no rigorous planning. It is not required to create an agenda. Employers are not necessarily required to give employees copies of the points to be discussed or take notes of the meeting minutes. 

Another advantage of stand-up meetings is that they do not consume too much time. Just like in virtual meetings, participants can allocate ten to fifteen minutes of their day, no matter how busy they are.

#4 Stand up meetings are more focused on taking actions 

Generally, the people participating in stand-up meetings are more focused on action instead of spending long hours of discussion. It is more concentrated on taking action to create better results for the business. 

Focusing on action aids the team set out comprehensive goals and establish the steps leading to achieving those goals. This means that employees’ actions will be adequately aligned with accomplishing those goals and further improving efficiency.

#5 Stand-up meetings can keep employees healthy

Stand-up meetings can help prevent a sedentary lifestyle. When people are standing, they can be more active compared to when they are sitting. There are various benefits of standing while at work or in a meeting. It helps stretch out your muscles, reduces the risk of weight issues, and prevents posture-related problems.

Tips on How to Make Stand-Up Meetings More Efficient

There are several tips that you can consider to make your stand-up meetings go smoothly and effectively. Some of these are mentioned below:

#1 Hold the meeting in an open room with no chairs and tables. 

This will ensure that everyone will stand and stay focused during the meeting.

#2 Keep the meeting short (but meaningful)

A meeting that will be longer than 15 minutes is not ideal for a quick stand-up meeting. Keep a stand-up meeting short and meaningful. 

#3 Keep devices out of reach

The goal of a stand-up meeting is to share and listen to everyone’s suggestions. This can be distracted if there are phones, monitors, and other gadgets at reach. So, make sure not to bring them during the meeting unless necessary.

#4 Stick to the main topic

Since stand-up meetings are short in time, it is imperative to make sure everyone will be tackling the main purpose of the meeting. Make sure not to discuss things that are out of the topic. This will also help everyone to stay connected and interested.

#5 Keep a regular time and place

Most companies hold a stand-up meeting first thing in the morning because they are more energetic and active. It will be great if we stick to that routine and make it a positive habit.

On the other hand, daily stand-up meetings are not always necessary. Employers can have it done weekly or when there is something urgent to discuss.

#6 Be prepared for the meeting

Make sure to get ready with what you are going to discuss. Create a list or note for better reference. Encourage every team member to prepare for the stand-up meeting and list down their ideas to be shared.

#7 Start the meeting on time

Meetings should start on time. Remember, stand-up meetings are short; thus, every minute counts.

#8 Avoid distractions

Do not let the meeting be interrupted by some possible distractions. Encourage people to listen and let a person finish speaking. This will promote better communication and understanding among members of the team. 

Final Thoughts

Stand-up meetings can be highly effective when done correctly. Remember to invite a small team as much as possible. A meeting with more than 15 attendees may be too much for a single stand-up meeting. Split the team into two smaller groups for better communication.

A stand-up meeting will lead to an increased rate of knowledge shared among employees. They will not only have the opportunity to share their insights and suggestions about a project, but they will also feel comfortable with an informal meeting setup like this. 

By following the above tips, you can leverage the benefits of stand-up meetings within your company.