A Survey Of Nigerian Perceptions Of Corporate Communication Through Meeting Conduct: The Issues At Stake.

Abstract

This study is grounded in the Functional Theory of Group Decision-Making, which posits that meetings achieve effective outcomes when essential communicative functions are successfully fulfilled. Organisations that fail to conduct purposeful and well-structured meetings are prone to recurring conflicts, inefficiency, and delays in achieving their objectives. Meetings may become unproductive when objectives are unclear, discussions lack focus, or the chairman is unable to guide interaction effectively. Guided by this theory, the article provides practical guidelines for improving meeting effectiveness. It examines the core functions of meetings, differentiates types and sizes of meetings, emphasises the importance of clearly defining objectives, and explores the chairman’s role in managing participation, maintaining focus, and directing discussion efficiently. The study highlights how structured communication, careful preparation, and active leadership contribute to productive meetings that successfully achieve organisational goals, enhance decision-making processes, reduce misunderstandings, improve collaboration, and minimise the risk of conflict or operational setbacks.