ALIEN thinking: A smarter way to run meetings

Meetings are crucial for effective decision-making, problem-solving, and team building, but unproductive meetings can waste time, reduce morale, and even hurt your team’s reputation.

In this session, you’ll discover the State of Vermont’s ALIEN framework - an innovative approach to making your meetings more efficient and impactful. ALIEN stands for Agenda, Length, Intent, Expertise, and Notes, and it provides a clear set of best practices for running productive meetings that drive results. Join us to revolutionize your meeting practices and turn every meeting into a powerhouse of productivity and collaboration!

State of Vermont, Chief Performance Office  envisions a more efficient, effective, and modern state government. Our mission is to equip state agencies with the tools, knowledge, and strategies needed to solve problems, streamline operations, and drive meaningful, lasting improvements for Vermonters. We support state employees at all levels by expanding their skills, tackling complex challenges, and optimizing processes to enhance performance. Our work focuses on five key areas: performance and outcomes reporting, continuous improvement training, communities of practice, technical software training, and individual/team support. https://aoa.vermont.gov/chief-performance-office

Katie Bockwoldt is the Director of Performance Improvement for the State of Vermont. Katie manages the State of Vermont’s Continuous Improvement Training Program, coordinates the Continuous Improvement Network of over 1,500 employees, and also works directly with teams and individuals on process improvement, performance management, and strategy development. Prior to this position, Katie was a Continuous Improvement Program Manager at the Agency of Transportation, Environmental Analyst at the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, and research fellow at US EPA. Katie has a Masters of Science in Freshwater Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Roanoke College.

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

12 p.m.       Introduction

12:10 p.m.  Discussion 

12:45 p.m.  Questions and Wrap Up

1 p.m.         Adjourn

1. Understanding Common Meeting Problems: Gain insight into the most common issues that make meetings unproductive and how to avoid them.
2. A Practical Framework for Better Meetings: Learn how to apply the ALIEN framework to structure meetings that are focused, efficient, and results-driven.
3. How to Change Meeting Culture: Learn how to shift your team’s meeting culture towards one that prioritizes efficiency, accountability, and collaboration, ensuring every meeting drives meaningful results.

This session is ideal for supervisors, project managers, and employees at all levels who want to run more effective, goal-oriented meetings. Whether you lead meetings or simply attend them, you'll gain practical strategies to improve efficiency, engagement, and outcomes.