While there’s no magic formula for conducting good meetings, Amy Rees Anderson believes a leader’s authenticity always sets the right tone. “I think leaders who try to act overly serious or who talk in terms that are difficult for people to follow end up creating a barrier between themselves and their employees,” said Anderson, managing partner of REES Capital and contributing writer for Forbes magazine. “When leaders can be down to earth and openly authentic with their people, they’ll garner far more support from their team.”

Anderson suggests some of the best meetings are transparent and even unscripted, where managers talk frankly about mistakes, or spontaneously applaud performances. “Honesty and openness with employees is the most important tip for communicating company-wide, and always remembering to be grateful and appreciative for the work they are doing and the contribution they make each day,” she says.

Could you use some tips for running better meetings that maximize time and keep discussions on point? Click here to read the latest Counselor Management column to get expert advice.