The Science of Better Meetings: What Makes People Pay Attention?

Level: Intermediate • Date: April 15, 2025

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

Why Shorter Meetings Work Better for Meetings in 2025

A recent study from Harvard Business Review shows that shorter, focused meetings lead to better results. As we look toward better meetings in 2025, the focus is on doing more with less—less time, less stress, and less confusion. In 2025, professionals are busier than ever, and many feel frustrated with long or unfocused meetings.

Key Factors That Improve Engagement

The research found that meetings under 30 minutes had higher engagement. Participants were more likely to contribute and remember key points when the agenda was clear and the leader stayed on topic.

The Role of Movement and Energy

Another key factor? Movement. People who stood up or walked during virtual calls said they felt more awake and involved. Some companies are even adding “walk-and-talk” meetings to keep energy high.

Listening and Participation Matter

Good meetings also include small breaks or check-ins. When team members feel heard, they’re more likely to stay focused and share ideas. Listening is just as important as speaking.

Simple Ways to Improve Your Next Meeting

So, if you want your next meeting to be a success, keep it short, stay on topic, let people move, and make sure everyone gets a chance to talk. These small actions have a big impact. For example, starting with a clear agenda sets expectations and helps participants stay focused. Offering a short stretch break during long calls can refresh energy and prevent mental fatigue.

To create better meetings in 2025, leaders must be intentional about how they plan and run discussions. This includes encouraging open feedback, limiting meeting time to 25–30 minutes, and using technology to make virtual sessions feel more personal. Whether in-person or remote, the goal is to keep everyone engaged and make the most of every minute.

Focusing on better meetings in 2025 isn’t just a productivity trend—it’s a key part of team success. When employees feel heard, respected, and included, they’re more likely to contribute ideas and drive innovation.

Vocabulary

engagement (n.) – interest or involvement in something – Short meetings improve team engagement.
agenda (n.) – a list of items to be discussed – The manager sent the agenda before the meeting.
participant (n.) – someone who takes part in a meeting or event – Every participant shared an idea.
key point (n.) – important idea or message – She repeated the key point to make it clear.
movement (n.) – physical activity or motion – A little movement can improve focus during meetings.
virtual (adj.) – happening online rather than in person – We had a virtual meeting on Zoom.
awake (adj.) – not tired; alert – Walking helped me stay awake during the call.
involved (adj.) – actively participating – Everyone felt more involved after the check-in.
check-in (n.) – a short update or discussion – The check-in gave everyone a voice.
contribute (v.) – to give ideas or help with something – He contributed a great solution during the meeting.

Discussion Questions (about the article)

What kind of meetings had better engagement, according to the study?
Why do people feel more involved during “walk-and-talk” meetings?
What does a clear agenda help with?
How do check-ins help meetings?
What are some simple ways to improve a meeting?

Discussion Questions (about the topic)

What makes a meeting effective, in your opinion?
Have you ever tried walking during a virtual call?
What are some common problems with meetings at your job?
Do you prefer long meetings or short ones? Why?
How do you feel when someone really listens to your idea?

Idiom of the Day

“get the ball rolling” – to start something, especially a discussion or project.
Let’s get the ball rolling by talking about our first topic.

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