What are some of the most innovative or surprising ideas presented in 'The Surprising Science of Meetings'?

The lessons from "The Surprising Science of Meetings" can be applied in today's business environment to make meetings more productive by implementing several strategies. First, leaders should be observant of informal cues such as attendees multitasking on phones or engaging in side conversations, as these may indicate that the meeting dynamics are not ideal. Regular assessments of meeting quality, perhaps every three months, can also be beneficial. This could be done using an anonymous short survey. The goal is to create an environment that fosters creativity, effectiveness, and dynamism, turning tiresome and costly meetings into productive sessions.

The concept of "periodic assessment of meeting quality" as explained in the book "The Surprising Science of Meetings" refers to the regular evaluation of the effectiveness and productivity of meetings. This is typically done every three months using an anonymous short survey. The purpose of this assessment is to identify any issues or areas of improvement in the meeting dynamics. Leaders should be observant of informal cues such as attendees multitasking on phones or engaging in side conversations, as these may indicate that the meeting dynamics are not ideal. By conducting these assessments periodically, leaders can ensure that their meetings are productive and effective.