How to have productive meetings at Nottingham Venues

In today’s fast paced business environment, effective meetings are crucial for driving collaboration, innovation, and decision making. However, keeping attendees engaged and focused during extended sessions can be challenging. We’re here to share how to have productive meetings, helping you choose an ideal setting to transform your corporate meetings into energising, productive events.

Here are our top tips to maximise meeting productivity, and how Nottingham Venues can support you every step of the way.

The cost of unproductive meetings

Unproductive meetings are more than a frustration, they’re a significant drain on resources:

• UK workers lose an average of 13 days a year to ineffective meetings
• Employees dedicate 15% of their working hours to meetings, yet only 11% are considered truly productive

Top tips for how to have a productive meeting

1. Plan with purpose and set an agenda

Start by defining clear objectives. A focused agenda ensures everyone understands the purpose of the meeting and the desired outcomes. Share this agenda in advance so participants come prepared, and allocate time for discussions, brainstorming, and Q&A sessions.

2. Appoint a meeting leader

When it comes to understanding how to have a productive meeting, a designated leader helps steer the discussion, keeps track of time, and ensures all voices are heard. Their role is to guide the meeting toward achieving its objectives while maintaining focus and momentum.

3. Invite the right attendees

Productivity often decreases as the number of attendees increases. How to have a productive meeting is all about being selective, inviting only those with a specific role or contribution to the discussion. Ensure key decision makers are present to avoid delays.

4. Choose the right environment

The meeting environment can significantly influence engagement and focus. A venue with natural light, ergonomic seating, and modern amenities can set the tone for a successful session.

At Nottingham Venues, we offer:

• Flexible meeting spaces, from intimate boardrooms to conference rooms for up to 140 attendees 
• Hybrid, in-person, or virtual meeting setups with state of the art facilities 
• Convenient locations with free parking, making access hassle free

5. Leverage technology

Smooth technology integration is essential for keeping meetings productive. Hybrid setups allow remote participants to join seamlessly, while robust Wi-Fi and reliable presentation tools ensure everything runs as planned.

Our meeting rooms are fully equipped with:

• High-speed Wi-Fi 
• ClickShare presentation tools 
• Hybrid meeting cameras and flipcharts 
• Expert AV support from our in-house team 

6. Personalise your meeting

A tailored experience makes meetings more engaging and memorable. Personalised setups, branded materials, or unique breakout activities can leave a lasting impression.

Our expert team excels at customising every detail, from room layouts to bespoke catering options, to match your requirements perfectly.

7. Keep energy levels high with catering

A hungry audience is a distracted one. Providing nourishing food and drinks can sustain focus and engagement throughout the day.

Our delicious catering services include:

• Flexible options, from light snacks to full sit down meals 
• Buffet lunches, coffee breaks, and pre-arranged menus tailored to your preferences. 

Let us take care of the logistics while you focus on the meeting’s success.  

8. Incorporate breaks and movement

Another key tip when you’re considering how to have a productive meeting, is to avoid productivity dips by scheduling regular breaks, these pauses allow participants to recharge, network, and refocus. Activities such as quick team building exercises or outdoor walks can rejuvenate attendees.

With Nottingham Venues located on the stunning 330 acre University of Nottingham parkland, your team can step outside to enjoy fresh air and serene surroundings.

9. Offer comfortable accommodation for multi-day events

For longer meetings or conferences, providing high quality accommodation ensures attendees stay refreshed and productive.

Our offerings include:

• Eco-friendly rooms at The Orchard Hotel 
• Convenient access at The Jubilee Hotel, perfect for city centre meetings 
• Over 200 rooms suitable for teams, complete with modern amenities and tranquil settings 

10. Follow up and invite feedback

The meeting doesn’t end when the session is over. Sending a follow up email summarising key points, decisions, and next steps ensures everyone stays aligned. Invite feedback to improve future meetings, addressing aspects such as duration, content, and timing.

Ready to transform your meetings this year?

At Nottingham Venues, we combine exceptional facilities, outstanding catering, and expert support to create productive and memorable corporate meetings. Whether you need tailored setups, delicious food, or stylish accommodation, we’re here to make your event seamless and successful.

Get in touch with us today and let us help you plan your next productive event.