Question 1

What is *The Surprising Science of Meetings* by Steven G. Rogelberg about?

Accepted Answer

*The Surprising Science of Meetings* provides evidence-based strategies to transform unproductive meetings into efficient, engaging sessions. Drawing on 15+ years of research and surveys of 5,000+ employees, Rogelberg identifies common meeting pitfalls (e.g., poor time management, disengagement) and offers actionable fixes, such as optimizing attendee lists and refining agendas. The book combines organizational psychology with real-world examples to help leaders eliminate wasted time and boost outcomes.

Question 2

Who should read *The Surprising Science of Meetings*?

Accepted Answer

This book is essential for managers, team leaders, and employees who regularly organize or attend meetings. It’s particularly valuable for professionals in corporate, tech, or nonprofit sectors seeking data-driven methods to reduce meeting fatigue and improve collaboration. Rogelberg’s insights cater to both novice leaders and seasoned executives aiming to foster accountability and productivity.

Question 3

Is *The Surprising Science of Meetings* worth reading?

Accepted Answer

Yes—the book is praised for its actionable advice and rigorous research. *Business Insider* calls it “compelling,” while organizational psychologist Adam Grant hails Rogelberg as the “world’s leading expert on how to fix meetings.” Readers gain tools to shorten meetings, engage participants, and measure success, making it a high-ROD (return on decisions) resource for workplace efficiency.

Question 4

What are the key concepts in *The Surprising Science of Meetings*?

Accepted Answer

Core ideas include:
- **Optimal meeting length**: Shorter, focused sessions outperform marathons.
- **Participant psychology**: Smaller groups (4-7 people) enhance engagement.
- **Agenda design**: Prioritize critical topics and allocate time proportionally.
- **Host accountability**: Leaders must model preparedness and solicit feedback.

Rogelberg also debunks myths, like the necessity of weekly status updates.

Question 5

How does *The Surprising Science of Meetings* compare to other leadership books?

Accepted Answer

Unlike generic leadership guides, Rogelberg’s work zeroes in on meetings as a microcosm of organizational health. While books like *Atomic Habits* focus on personal routines, this title offers a systems-level approach to collective efficiency. It’s frequently compared to Patrick Lencioni’s *Death by Meeting* but stands out for its empirical depth and focus on behavioral science.

Question 6

What actionable tips does Steven G. Rogelberg offer for better meetings?

Accepted Answer

- **Cancel unnecessary meetings**: 15-20% of meetings could be eliminated with no downside.
- **Use a “reverse agenda”**: List decisions needed first, then allocate time.
- **Encourage “meeting sprints”**: Cap discussions at 45 minutes to maintain focus.
- **Rotate facilitators**: Reduces leader bias and fosters inclusivity.

Question 7

What are common criticisms of *The Surprising Science of Meetings*?

Accepted Answer

Some reviewers note the advice leans heavily on corporate settings, with less guidance for remote or hybrid environments. Others suggest the book could explore systemic causes of meeting dysfunction (e.g., organizational culture) more deeply. However, its practicality and research-backed framework outweigh these gaps.

Question 8

How does *The Surprising Science of Meetings* address virtual meetings?

Accepted Answer

While primarily focused on in-person interactions, Rogelberg’s principles apply universally: clear agendas, minimized multitasking, and proactive timekeeping. He emphasizes camera-on policies and using breakout rooms for large virtual groups—a prescient take given the post-2020 shift to remote work.

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Key takeaways

Meetings: The Silent Productivity Drain We Can't Seem to Quit

The Meeting Paradox: Why We Need Them Despite Hating Them

The Leadership Blind Spot: Your Meetings Are Worse Than You Think

Breaking the Time Trap: Why 60 Minutes Is Almost Always Too Long

Beyond the Agenda: Designing Meetings That Actually Work

The Silent Revolution: How Less Talking Creates Better Outcomes

Transform Your Meeting Culture: Start Small, Think Big

The Surprising Science of Meetings by Steven G. Rogelberg Summary

Overview of The Surprising Science of Meetings

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Key takeaways

Meetings: The Silent Productivity Drain We Can't Seem to Quit

The Meeting Paradox: Why We Need Them Despite Hating Them

The Leadership Blind Spot: Your Meetings Are Worse Than You Think

Breaking the Time Trap: Why 60 Minutes Is Almost Always Too Long

Beyond the Agenda: Designing Meetings That Actually Work

The Silent Revolution: How Less Talking Creates Better Outcomes

Transform Your Meeting Culture: Start Small, Think Big

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