Since joining HR Circles, I have daily morning 'catch-ups' with my team - an informal meeting to make sure everyone knows what each other is doing in our team. Prior to my appointment with HR Circles, I would have regular 'catch-ups' with various colleagues in my last team which would often involve a visit to the kettle to make fresh cups of coffee or tea and then sit down in the lounge area away from all office distractions to have a proper 'catch-up' on each other's movements.

Personally, I love catch-ups; they are personal, everyone knows where they stand, and it's a great way to raise any issues you may have in an informal way, talk through problems, share knowledge, exchange advice, and brainstorm new ideas. 

I think catch-ups are much more productive than formal meetings in a boardroom where it limits you to a specific agenda and you're not free to chat about work issues at will.

So next time you're thinking of calling a formal meeting, why not try out one-to-one or team catch-ups down the local cafe over a coffee or in an informal, but private setting, where everyone can let down their guard, feel at ease and give each other the space to talk in a free way. Go on, I dare you...you'll be amazed. It can be invigorating. It helps to creates an open culture and sense of teamwork where everyone feels valued, and that their opinion counts. But the most important part, you can all walk away from your 'catch-up' feeling really motivated and positive so you can continue to deliver great results.