7 Tips to Ace Any Meeting

Naked Leader Week 1164 – Monday 2 March 2026

Time to read: A lot shorter than meetings!

7 Tips to Ace Any Meeting

0. A Given – Arrive 10 minutes before

1. Sit in a Position of Visibility – Preferably Central

Why it works:

Humans instinctively associate central positions with status.

Best seat: Next to The Chairperson – right if they are right-handed, left if left-handed

Worst seat: Perched in a corner in a seat you have to bring in because you are late

2. Speak Early – Not First – and speak slightly slower than normal

Why it works:

People who speak early in meetings are seen as more competent and influential — an   anchoring effect

Best move: Ask a positive upbeat question of a person who speaks before you

Worst move: Disagreeing with someone or telling them they are wrong (even if they are)

3. Ask Framing Questions

Powerful people frame the conversation, not just answer questions.

High-power question:

“What problem are we really trying to solve?”

Why?: Psychologically, the person who defines the problem is seen as the leader.

4. Use Silence Strategically

Why?: Silence signals confidence. Anxious people rush to fill space

Listen to others as if your life depends on it and write notes down on paper as others are speaking – much more powerful than typing a keyboard

5. Summarise What’s Happening

Why? Nothing signals authority like clarity.

Groups unconsciously assign leadership to the person who creates structure.

6. Sit upright and make calm, slow gestures – stillness is power

Why? People judge status from posture within seconds.

7. Ask Decision Questions

“What decision are we making today?”

“Who will own that?”

Action orientation signals leadership.

Bonus Tip

Be upbeat, positive and a ‘yes and’ not ‘no but’ leader

With my love and best wishes to you

David

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