If your team works a traditional schedule, the last two hours of the workweek are often a productivity black hole. Energy dips, attention shifts toward weekend plans, and focus fades fast. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be that way.
People love to wrap up their week with purpose and positivity. That’s why Friday afternoon is the perfect time to hold an effective weekly team meeting—one that celebrates wins, reflects with intention, and sets everyone up for success in the week ahead.
Run an Effective Weekly Team Meeting with These 8 Questions
These eight questions are designed to help you foster clarity, motivation, and connection—all in 30-45 minutes. Think of them in two parts: one to complete the week, and one to set the stage for what’s next.
🍒 Part 1: Put the Cherry on Top of the Week
- What did we get done?
Take a moment to celebrate progress—big and small. High-fives, shoutouts, and appreciation go a long way. - What didn’t we get done?
Look at what slipped. Does it still matter? If so, what’s needed to move it forward next week? If not, park it. - What did we do that worked this week?
Recognize wins in how the team collaborated, problem-solved, or stayed focused. This is how you double down on what’s effective. - What did we do that didn’t work this week?
No blame. Just honest reflection. Was this a fluke or a pattern? If it’s a recurring issue, flag it for follow-up.
🍨 Part 2: Build a Sundae for Next Week
- What opportunities are now available to us, considering what worked and didn’t?
Connect current efforts to bigger goals—monthly, quarterly, strategic. Bring it back to mission, vision, and values. - What is each person committing to accomplish by next week’s meeting?
Go around the circle. Let each team member clearly share their commitment. Write them down. Visibility = accountability. - What do you have in place (or need) to accomplish those commitments?
This is where people can flag time, communication, or resource needs—before they become blockers. - Do you have any requests of this team to help you succeed?
This keeps collaboration flowing. Make sure all requests are acknowledged in the moment—don’t let them dangle.
End on a High Note
Wrap the meeting by thanking everyone for their contributions and energy throughout the week. Then send them off with a sincere “Enjoy your weekend.”
Pro Tip for Leadership: Don’t Just Hold a Meeting—Make It Meaningful
An effective weekly team meeting isn’t just about accountability—it’s about alignment, encouragement, and shared ownership of results. When done right, this time together boosts morale, sharpens focus, and sends your team into the weekend feeling accomplished and clear-headed for Monday.
Here’s to closing out the week with clarity and starting the next one strong.
