The Science of Ending Meetings Right for Employee Wellbeing

The way work meetings conclude, termed the “closing ceremonies”, significantly impacts employee productivity and mental health. Professor Steven Rogelberg emphasizes the common mistake of neglecting a proper meeting ending, leading to frustration and confusion. It is crucial to wrap up meetings a few minutes early, initiating an effective “closing process”.

Leaders must recap discussions, assign responsibilities, set deadlines, and address any outstanding agenda items. Failure to end on time risk resentment and negatively affects subsequent productivity. Rogelberg stresses the importance of preventing negative meeting experiences from lingering and spreading negativity within the workplace.

“Meetings that go over run the risk of creating resentment among attendees, who often have to rush to their next meeting and may worry about being late.”