Anton Guinea
Entrepreneur, Speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Guinea Group of Companies. For over 15 years, Anton has helped leaders move their teams to become psychologically safe, physically safe and overall better versions of themselves.
How Can You Set a Better Meeting Atmosphere as a Leader?
Ever walked into a meeting dreading what’s ahead? You’re not alone. Meetings have a reputation for being time-consuming, unproductive, or even tense. But here’s the good news: as a leader, you have the power to change that.
The tone you set can transform meetings into energising, collaborative, and effective moments of connection. Let’s explore how top leaders create a better meeting atmosphere—and how you can too.
1. Set the Tone Before the Meeting Starts
Great leaders don’t wait until everyone is seated to influence the room. They shape the meeting before it begins. Send a clear, focused agenda ahead of time. Let people know what to expect, what decisions need to be made, and what preparation is needed.
Pro Tip: Add a line like “Bring one idea” or “Come ready to challenge assumptions” to encourage active contribution.
2. Start with Gratitude and Recognition
Kicking off with appreciation can immediately boost morale. Highlight recent wins, thank someone for going the extra mile, or acknowledge a team’s effort. Recognition helps people feel valued—and opens them up to meaningful participation.
Example: LinkedIn’s CEO Ryan Roslansky begins many meetings with a “moment of gratitude” to spotlight personal or team accomplishments.
3. Be Present and Model Engagement
Your body language, eye contact, and attentiveness set the standard. If you’re distracted or checking emails, others will follow. Show up as if the meeting truly matters—because it does. It’s where culture is shaped.
Pro Tip: Close your laptop unless necessary, and ask others to do the same. Create a space for undivided attention.
4. Encourage Open Dialogue, Not Just Updates
Avoid turning meetings into a report-out session. Invite ideas, ask questions, and show genuine curiosity. Create psychological safety where everyone feels comfortable speaking up—even if their views differ.
Example: At Google, leaders use techniques like “no interruption zones” to ensure every voice is heard, especially from quieter team members.
5. End with Clarity and Energy
No one should leave a meeting wondering, “What was the point?” Recap key decisions, assign clear next steps, and ask how everyone feels about the meeting. Ending on a high note builds momentum.
Pro Tip: Try closing with a quick roundtable: “One word on how you’re leaving today?”
How to Apply This in Your Own Meetings
- Create intentional rituals – Start with a check-in, end with a takeaway.
- Balance structure with flexibility – Have a plan but make space for the unexpected.
- Rotate facilitation – Empower others to lead parts of the meeting.
- Celebrate small wins – Even a short shoutout can make a big difference.
Meetings don’t have to drain—they can inspire. As a leader, your energy, tone, and structure set the stage for collaboration and creativity. How are you shaping your meetings to bring out the best in your team?
Let’s lead better meetings
One conversation at a time.
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