Writing goals also provides important benefits. It allows you to consider, explore, and discard possibilities. And then you can show goals to others to obtain their comments and suggestions.

Asking for help preparing goals is especially useful when working on complex or controversial issues. Now you can 1) use their comments to refine goals, 2) win support for your goals by including others in their development, 3) gain information on issues related to goals, 4) uncover issues that may conflict with goals, and 5) develop strategies for achieving goals.

Once you complete goals for your meeting, put them on agenda. That helps everyone focus on your purpose for meeting. And it significantly increases your chances of ending with results that you wanted.

8) How soon after meeting do you issue minutes? -- a) If you think I want to publicize how much time we wasted, you’re nuts, b) Within a few months or so, c) As soon as possible, if not faster

9) While someone is speaking, do you: -- a) Wonder about strength of plastic foams, b) Plan a way to change subject, c) Listen empathetically

10) What structured activities do you use in your meetings? -- a) We sit on chairs, b) Everyone leaves at same time, c) Process tools designed to gather information, make decisions, and manage participation.

Score: subtract five points for every (a), mark a zero for every (b), and add five points for every (c).

If your total is:

* Negative: Go to your boss and ask to be fired

* Zero to 20: Stay home

* 25 to 35: Attend a workshop

* 40 to 50: Congratulations