Jeff Bezos says messy meetings lead to productivity

In the United States, Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, is reported to have had dinner with Donald Trump, the President-elect. This meeting marks a significant shift since Bezos and Trump previously did not get along. During a recent interview with Kristen Welker for NBC's Meet the Press, Trump confirmed their dinner plans, stating that he has had positive communication with Bezos, who expressed optimism about Trump's second term. Bezos's views on meetings were also highlighted, emphasizing his unconventional methods aimed at enhancing their productivity. Bezos is known for his unique approach to meetings, where he instructs participants to speak in order of seniority, starting with the most junior. This strategy allows him to listen to diverse opinions before providing his input, which he typically reserves for the end of discussions. He believes that such an approach prevents 'groupthink' and fosters authentic dialogue among attendees. The Amazon founder has advocated for a meeting format that allows for spirited discussions, and he describes his ideal meeting as 'messy.' Although these discussions run the risk of going beyond scheduled time, Bezos appreciates the value of in-depth conversation. He implements a method where attendees first read detailed memos before discussions begin, aiding in informed conversations and reducing the chances of superficial engagement. Bezos's meeting strategy, which he refers to as the best thing they have done at Amazon, has become popular among other tech leaders as well. By encouraging diverse views and avoiding formal presentations, he aims to foster an environment where genuine thoughts can emerge. His girlfriend, Lauren Sanchez, noted that while Bezos’s meetings might exceed an hour, he tries to keep them focused and productive, avoiding unnecessary stress or distractions for participants. Thus, while the dinner between Bezos and Trump was notable, it is Bezos's innovative approach to meetings that takes center stage, illustrating his commitment to improving organizational dialogue.