Sheryl Sandberg Itemized Meeting Prep

Prepare for any discussion using the Sheryl Sandberg meeting routine. Map out action items on a single notepad page to keep discussions fast and focused.

4 time blocks, 11 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Open Spiral Notebook Page: 2 min
Write the topic, date, and key attendees at top of page
Draft Itemized Action List: 4 min
List exact topics, questions, and decisions as distinct bullet points
Prioritize Critical Decisions: 3 min
Star critical decisions that must be resolved before adjourning
Set Rapid Crossing Criteria: 2 min
Set clear criteria for crossing off items and ending the meeting early

About this routine

Former Meta executive Sheryl Sandberg developed a distinct workflow for managing high stakes discussions. The Sheryl Sandberg meeting routine relies on a physical spiral notebook containing a handwritten list of agenda items, decisions, and discussion points on a single page.

Instead of relying on digital slide decks or long agenda documents, Sandberg brought her notebook into every meeting. She systematically addressed each line item, crossing off topics as they were resolved. If all items were crossed off within ten minutes of a scheduled one hour meeting, the meeting ended immediately.

Adopting this paper checklist approach helps you define required outcomes before a conversation starts. Running this brief prep sequence with a routine timer online ensures you enter every meeting with clear priorities and zero wasted time.

Why this routine works

Creates clear meeting boundaries by identifying essential decisions before starting
Eliminates lingering discussions by ending meetings as soon as items are resolved
Keeps agendas concise and actionable on a single physical page

FAQ

What is Sheryl Sandberg's meeting routine?

Sheryl Sandberg prepares for meetings by writing an itemized checklist of agenda items and decisions on a paper notebook page. During the meeting, she crosses off items as they are resolved and ends the session early if every item is cleared.

How does the spiral notebook checklist work?

Before a meeting begins, you list every decision and topic on a single notepad sheet. As each topic is addressed, you cross it out. Once all items are checked off, you tear off the page and conclude the meeting.

How long does this meeting prep routine take?

This notebook preparation routine takes 11 minutes to outline decisions, structure agenda items, and set exit criteria.

Sources

Sheryl Sandberg's Paper Notebook Meeting Method, Fortune
How Sheryl Sandberg Runs Meetings, Business Insider