A 3-Step Formula to Make Meetings Count This Term 4

Term 4. 
We all know the drill—hectic, high-stakes, and packed with “just one more thing” before the finish line. And let’s be honest, the calendar often fills with meetings. 

Some of us are swamped with them. 
Others have had our meeting teams cut back. 
Both come with challenges: too many and you drown in information, too few and you feel out of the loop. 

Either way, if we want to set ourselves (and our staff) up for success, our meetings need to count. 

Here’s a simple formula to keep things sharp, whether you’re leading the meeting or trying to decipher its purpose: 

👉 WHAT? – What is it we need to hear or do? 
👉 SO WHAT? – Why does this matter? 
👉 NOW WHAT? – What does this mean for me? 

It’s deceptively simple, but incredibly effective. 

And here’s the researchy bit: 

Adult learning theory (think Malcolm Knowles’ andragogy) reminds us that grown-ups learn best when content is relevant, problem-centred, and immediately applicable. When meetings are purposeful and engaging, they reduce frustration, build clarity, and create a sense of shared direction.  

Research in organisational psychology shows that when people feel their time is valued, their sense of autonomy, competence, and connection grows — the very ingredients of workplace wellbeing.  

Translation? We switch off when meetings feel like time-fillers or information dumps.  

But we tune in when we understand the purpose and how it connects to our role. 

In other words, running meaningful meetings isn’t just good for productivity, it’s an act of care for the humans in the room. 

So, whether you’re running the agenda or just sitting at the table, keep this formula in mind. Use it to frame conversations, sharpen agendas, and keep everyone’s attention where it matters most. 

Because in Term 4, the goal isn’t more meetings. It’s meaningful meetings that save us time, boost clarity, and set us up to finish strong. 

Here’s your challenge this week: 

At your next meeting, listen for the WHAT, the SO WHAT, and the NOW WHAT.  

If you don’t hear them, ask the question. Be the one who brings focus back to what really matters. 

Here’s to fewer wasted minutes and more clarity as we ride the Term 4 wave 🌊