What should a manager do if a meeting should begin but several employees are not there?

When a meeting needs to begin but several employees are not present, starting the meeting is often the most effective choice. This approach demonstrates respect for the time of those who have arrived and maintains productivity. Waiting for absent employees can lead to delays and disrupt the agenda, ultimately wasting the time of those who are present and prepared to engage in the discussion.

By initiating the meeting, the manager can still cover essential topics, gather input from those present, and keep the momentum moving forward. Additionally, valuable time can be utilized for discussions or decisions that don't require the input of those absent. The manager can later follow up with missing employees to inform them of what was discussed, ensuring they are kept in the loop without derailing the meeting for everyone else.

Postponing the meeting could lead to scheduling conflicts and hinder progress, while sending reminders or contacting absent employees does little to address the immediate need for the meeting to proceed effectively and efficiently.