1. Set an agenda, thus defining the objective.

Request a meeting agenda ahead of time, that outlines what the participants want to discuss and the best way of using the allocated time. Agendas need to have flexibility, and should act as a tool that force individuals to think about what they want to accomplish in meetings. The agenda helps all involved to focus on what they are trying to achieve and how best to reach that objective.

2. Assign a note-taker.

I'm a big believer in capturing an official set of notes, so inaccuracies and inconsistencies can be caught immediately. All those who attended, and those who missed the meetings receive a copy of the notes. When people are trying to remember what decisions were made, in what direction the team is going, and what actions need to be taken, they can simply review the notes.

3. Discourage politics, use the information at hand.

This idea can and should apply to meetings in organizations in which people feel as though the boss will use favoritism for the individual instead of embracing the idea. Use the Six Thinking Hats, or at least talk on the raw information you have. Don't mix in feelings, without letting people know that it is just feelings.

4. Stick to the clock.

To add a little pressure to keep meetings focused, get a timer on the wall, counting down the minutes left for a particular meeting or topic. Impose structure amidst creative chaos. The timer exerts a subtle pressure to keep meetings running on schedule.