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1. MAKE MEETINGS COUNT
Love them or hate them if you want to go up the corporate ladder you will encounter meetings. Make the most of yourself by going with the attitude that you will learn something useful and you will contribute something that is useful.

2. IT IS ABOUT YOU AS MUCH AS THE CONTENT
Yes you – you are a member and a participant. You could be passive and keep quiet but that means you have lost a valuable opportunity to contribute to the betterment of your organization. Think positively and think this is your platform to showcase your prowess and passion for your company, industry and nation. 

3. Impressions count
Impressions count so make sure your cell phone is on silent mode.

Positive performance includes professionalism and that usually includes not answering the phone in the middle of a meeting. 

Positive professional performance usually includes not answering the phone during a meeting

4. Note pads, documents and lap top
Pen and paper is usually good to have with you.  You would be surprised at the number of people who look unprepared without it. Leave them behind and bring pertinent documents with you to the meeting.  It is so unseemly to be fishing for documents during the meeting – avoid it like the plague. 

5. LOOK, LISTEN AND PERCEIVE
While listening is imperative, looking at and interpreting body language will give a fuller picture.  Use common sense and be in top form listening wise. Listen well and speak in measured terms. There is no point scoring when you express yourself in a raised voice manner or are condescending in any way.  Noting points down before speaking may keep you super calm, leading to a statesman like response which wins the day.

6. Measured Assertiveness
Why are we here? To consider and resolve matters and to move forward.  Thus you must at the right time make some valid comments that show you are part of the solution and are a team player. Think solutions, think progress, think ways forward that are best for the team and company. 

7. LOOKING PROFESSIONAL AND BEING ON THE BALL
Think about an early night and getting to the meeting early or at least on time. While the adage better late than never may work in some situations it usually never does for an important business meeting. So sleep well and be wide awake for your meeting. Nothing speaks louder than lateness … (need I say more!)