What is the guideline for starting meetings if only some participants arrive on time?

Starting meetings on time, even if not all participants are present, establishes a culture of punctuality and respect for time. This approach encourages individuals to arrive promptly, understanding that their time commitments are valued. It helps in keeping the agenda on track and allows for full utilization of the scheduled time.

When meetings frequently start late, it can lead to a cascade of delays for subsequent meetings and can negatively impact productivity. Furthermore, it values the time of those who did arrive as per the schedule, fostering accountability among participants. It is essential in professional settings to set expectations for timeliness, as this often reflects on overall leadership and organizational efficiency.

Waiting for all participants to arrive, for a specific timeframe, or for key members can lead to inefficiencies and interruptions in the flow of the meeting. This could result in losing focus on the agenda or extending discussions unnecessarily. Thus, initiating meetings on time is considered a best practice in effective time management.