Not every meeting is the same. Sometimes it’s a brief, informative update; other times it’s a session where ideas fly in all directions. We’re happy to outline the different types of meetings for you.
The different types of meetings usually have something in common. Namely, they all have a specific purpose. For example, to provide information, make decisions, brainstorm or evaluate.
Which type of meeting suits your purpose?
The most important question isn’t really what types of meetings there are, but rather: what sort of meeting do you need?
Choose the type that suits your objective. Do you want to provide information? Make a decision? Or perhaps generate ideas? By thinking about this in advance, you can avoid meetings dragging on unnecessarily or failing to achieve what you set out to do.
1. The briefing meeting
This meeting is all about sharing information. For example, updates on projects, results or developments within the organisation.
An informative meeting usually involves:
- One or more speakers
- Little discussion
- Focus on knowledge transfer
You can often recognise an informative meeting by its duration. It’s usually relatively short and to the point. Ideal if you want to bring everyone up to speed quickly.
2. The meetings where decisions are made: the decision-making meeting
Time to make a decision! During this meeting, you’ll discuss the various options and reach a concrete decision together.
This type of meeting is characterised by:
- A clear agenda
- Arguments and considerations
- To conclude with a decision
Please note: if you’re not properly prepared, this meeting could drag on due to unnecessary discussions. So make sure everyone knows what’s at stake beforehand, is well informed, and has received the relevant documents in advance.
3. The brainstorming session
This is the most creative form of meeting. A brainstorming session isn’t about sharing information or making decisions. No, it’s about coming up with as many ideas as possible together.
You can recognise a brainstorming session by:
- An open and informal atmosphere
- Lots of interaction
- Don’t judge yourself whilst brainstorming (everything is fine!)
Tip: choosing the right venue certainly plays an important role in a brainstorming session. It’s good to step away from the day-to-day routine for a while and choose a different space. That often sparks new ideas.
4. The problem-solving meeting
Is something not quite running smoothly within your organisation, or are there problems within a particular department? If so, a problem-solving meeting might be just what you need. During this meeting, you analyse the problem or the issues together and focus on finding solutions.
This type of meeting is characterised by:
- Focus on analysis
- Working together to find solutions
- Specific action points
Please note: it is important that everyone familiarises themselves thoroughly with the issue beforehand. That way, you won’t waste time bringing people up to speed.
5. The progress meeting (or progress review)
What’s the current state of play? A quick check-in with each other: this is the perfect time for a progress meeting. Or a progress discussion. What’s going well? Where are we falling behind? And what needs to be done to change course?
Characteristics of a progress meeting:
- Regularly recurring
- Short and structured
- Objective: progress and action
6. The debriefing meeting
After a project or event, it’s time to look back. It’s a good time to look together at what went well and what could be improved. What are you satisfied with, and where do you see room for improvement? At Jaarbeurs , we hold these kinds of meetings regularly with organisers of trade fairs, gatherings and conferences. That’s how we help each other improve.
Features:
- Reflection on results
- Open discussion
- Focused on improvement
We consider this to be a very valuable meeting because it enables all parties to continue learning and developing.
7. The stand-up
Anyone who works in an agile organisation will be familiar with them: stand-ups. These are short, often daily or weekly meetings in which everyone gives an update. Literally standing up, as this keeps the pace high. If you sit down, you run the risk of the energy draining out of the meeting quickly.
Features:
- Short (often 10–15 minutes)
- Updates in a nutshell
- No lengthy discussions
Ideal for teams that need to adapt quickly.
8. One-to-ones
And finally, of course: face-to-face meetings. We sometimes refer to these as ‘one-to-ones’. This is a face-to-face conversation between two people, for example, an employee and a manager.
This is a broad category. It can actually be just about anything. For example, a mid-term review, a performance review, a job interview, an exit interview or a brainstorming session, and so on.
A one-to-one meeting:
- It is face-to-face and in-depth
- Provides scope for feedback
- Focuses on development
The right environment makes all the difference
Each type of meeting requires a different setting. For example, a brainstorming session works better in a creative space, whilst a strategic session calls for peace and quiet and focus. In such cases, you don’t want to be disturbed by background noise or other people.
At Jaarbeurs MeetUp, you’ll find meeting rooms to suit every type of gathering. From small discussions to larger sessions: with the right venue, technology and support, you’ll get more out of every meeting.
What’s more, we have over 100 years’ experience in organising and hosting all kinds of events. We know exactly what you need to make your meeting as successful as possible. And we’re happy to help you plan it. Are you looking for a meeting room? We’re here to help!
