Like most, I go to a lot of meetings. Short meetings, long meetings, meetings about meetings - and not only that… I work in the meeting industry. Over the years I have gained what I like to think is a good understanding of how meetings should run. Most of it general etiquette and being professional.

But even at a senior level, a few of these pet peeves still seem to pop up. Here are my top 5 non-negotiables when attending meetings. This also applies to internal meetings; as internal staff are equally as important as external clients.

#1 - BE ON TIME

Every meeting etiquette write up that I've read includes this point. Time is an asset that people cannot get back. I find it terribly rude and inconsiderate when people arrive late, even if it's just a few minutes. Sometimes being late is unavoidable. A simple call or message will fix that, if you're going to be late then you will know about it - letting the other party know is a simple courtesy where possible.

#2 - END ON TIME

I've been to so many meetings that run over the allocated time. As above, time is an asset. I find it equally as inconsiderate when a meeting runs over time. If the meeting is obviously steering that way (agenda items not addressed yet etc.) then make a point and ASK if it's OK to extend the length of the meeting. An effective meeting should finish at the time scheduled.

#3 - BE PREPARED

This applies to both the host and the guest. An agenda should be sent out during the meeting request and the guest should ensure any items are researched prior. There is nothing worse than attending an unproductive meeting or gaining nothing from it. Agenda's provide a concise plan for the meeting and should outline the expected outline.

#4 - ONLY SPEAK IF IT ADDS VALUE

Have you ever been to a meeting where Mr/Mrs Know It All has a comment for everything?

It can be quite off putting to have to listen to someone that simply enjoys the sound of their own voice. Comment only if needed and try to listen more than you speak. Remember everything said should be adding to the conversation, not simply for the sake of it.

#5 - DON'T TALK OVER OTHERS

One thing I come across a lot is people talking over each other. What it tells me is there is a bit of an ego-trip in the room and people are fighting to be heard. Reminds me of lion's preying on their victims and pouncing all at once. If anything, it makes the person talking over others seem far less credible than he/she might be. There is time to talk, wait, pause, speak when required.

Above all time is precious. Meetings can be a great forum to finalise actions and create new outcomes - it should be used wisely.