Wise Guys Wednesday Words of Wisdom: Staff Meeting No Nos!

It's Wednesday, and that means it is "Hump Day!" You are now half-way through your week, and there is light at the end of the tunnel! We are here to brighten your day with Wise Guys Words of Wisdom!

This feature will be appearing on our blog once a week, on Wednesdays from mid August to mid June. The goal is for you to leave with a smile on your face and hopefully a spring in your step to help you finish off the week of school.

The fourth installment is all about Staff Meeting No Nos. We hope these tips will be lifesavers when it comes to sitting in staff meetings.

#1. Put your phone on vibrate. Nothing says "I am annoying" more than, "Take This Job and Shove It" blaring as your ringtone as your principal is talking.

#2. Try to arrive a little early to the meeting. We don't care what it takes (a cell phone reminder, a sticky note on your computer, a colleague to drag you to the meeting, or a note in your lunch bag), don't be late! Principals hate that!

#3. Zip it, lock it, put it in your pocket. Yes, that means when a speaker is talking at the meeting, listen! This is probably the hardest thing to do as a teacher, but this meeting is about information that is hopefully important to your job!

#4. DO NOT fall asleep! I know most staff meetings may take place at the end of the day. Whether it be a cup of joe, some chocolate, or an energy drink, make sure you are wide awake. Nothing says, "I don't care" more than snoring during a staff meeting.

#5. If the meeting was supposed to end at a certain time, and it hasn't, don't get up and leave. Remember, your job is more than just a 8-4 type of job. A staff meeting is something that you need to be there for the full time. 

#6.  Take the meeting seriously. It is easy to sit in a group of fellow teachers that may not pay attention as much, or have side comments. It is your job to be a professional, especially around your colleagues. You will earn their respect more that way. 

And finally, #7. Do not bring a buffet of food for yourself unless you have enough for everyone. There have been times in staff meetings where a neighbor has 1/2 the fruits on the planet, and everyone at the table just sits and stares and the teacher chomps down the whole lot. Treats are awesome! Be generous and bring enough for the whole staff!

We know that there are unforeseen circumstances that may interfere with the above tips (family issues, student/parent communication), but we hope that you take our advice. All of this was learned the hard way by us, or our colleagues over the years!

Stay tuned for next week's installment of Wise Guys Words of Wisdom!