Feeling like the meetings you have with your manager are a waste of time? Maybe you don't often say what you intend to say or perhaps they end up being more of a water cooler chat about the weekend, kids, sports, and more. It's time to take control of these meetings.
ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS
First - organize your thoughts. What do you want to share? Write a list of things that are on your mind, maybe those things that are challenging you with your work, the tasks you do not understand or need clarity on, or the ideas you have for improvement. Now, once you have this list go back through it. Ask yourself - is now or this particular upcoming meeting the best time to share this OR is this something that may be more relevant at a later date? I would also ask yourself what you would like to gain from the item on the list. I see a few options here: 1) general informative, 2) feedback on specific questions or approval to proceed as proposed, 3) personal development or an opportunity for growth (for team/you/business).
CONFIRM THE ASSOCIATED VALUE
Once you have narrowed down the list to the items that are specific, timely (relevant), and those that provide some information, clarity for either party, direction, or have some potential to result in improvement or growth it's time to send that list in advance.
GIVE YOUR MANAGER A HEADS UP
Why send the list you ask? Perhaps you're going to be meeting with them in a day or two. Well for one it shows you are prepared, that you're focused, and it sets the tone for the meeting. While you may really enjoy talking about the weekends, sports, or the weather you will be better served in positive forward motion when you take ownership and accountability for a productive meeting.
I REALLY DON'T HAVE MUCH ON MY LIST
Maybe you really don't have much to say or you just are so deep on this project your mind can't release enough to focus on the bigger picture at the moment. It is okay if you suggest to defer a meeting provided that you check if your manager has any topics for you. You could also consider just coming with some work in process to share on this hot project. Perhaps talking about it out loud would drive some additional thoughts or inspiration.
LEADERSHIP IS NOT JUST TOP DOWN
Overall I think one of the best pieces of advice I've gotten was to "Manage Up". Leadership does not have to come from the top down. I look at this as anticipating needs, developing your plan or identifying where input is needed, and providing information and results before it's even have thought to be asked of you. With this approach you can expect to take a more active role in the next steps and where you are headed.