In the hustle and bustle of our work lives, time management can easily be taken for granted. As executives and leaders, it's paramount that we understand and honor the true value of time—not just our own, but also that of our team members, colleagues, and partners. Being punctual and present may seem like mundane practices, but they can significantly impact our relationships, credibility, and the culture we cultivate in our organizations.
A wise adage says, "early is on time, on time is late." It's a stark departure from the modern culture of "just-in-time" arrivals, where we scramble to join a meeting at the last possible moment. Consider the number of times you've had to wait five or ten minutes for a late participant. The delay not only disrupts the flow of the meeting but also sends an implicit message: "Your time is not as valuable as mine." This subtly chips away at the respect and rapport you've worked hard to build.
Punctuality is a powerful way of demonstrating respect. It signals that you value the other person's time and acknowledge their efforts. As leaders, we should lead by example and instill a culture of punctuality. One straightforward way to do this is to be punctual ourselves—arriving for meetings on time, ready to engage. If you're still operating remotely, that means being logged in, microphone tested, and video on (if applicable) when the meeting begins.
When you're running a meeting, start promptly at the designated time. It might feel strange at first, especially if you're accustomed to waiting for latecomers. But with clear communication and consistency, it will become the norm. It could be beneficial to include a gentle note in your meeting invitations reminding participants that the session will start promptly. This sends a clear message about your commitment to punctuality and sets expectations for attendees.
Just as important as being punctual is being present. The term 'present' isn't merely about physical attendance—it's about being mentally and emotionally engaged in the meeting. It's about putting your phone away, silencing notifications, and putting a pause on other work or personal distractions.
If you're not fully present, you're not fully engaged. And if you're not fully engaged, you're not giving the respect that others' time and contributions deserve. Of course, there will be instances when, despite your best efforts, you simply can't bring your full focus to a meeting. It happens—we're all human. But in those moments, it's better to reschedule or excuse yourself from the meeting. Being honest about your inability to be fully present demonstrates respect for others' time and contributions.
Leadership is as much about the example we set as it is about the decisions we make. By being punctual and present, we cultivate an environment of respect and mindfulness. These practices will not only enhance your interactions within your team and organization, but also serve as a valuable guide for personal and professional interactions outside the workplace.
Remember: your actions set the tone. Being punctual and present can be small changes you make in your leadership approach, but they can have profound effects on your team's culture and effectiveness. After all, respect is the bedrock of any successful collaboration, and what better way to convey it than by honoring the time and attention of those you work with?