As you read this piece of literature, you will recognize some things that you may be familiar with, as it relates to meetings and the manner in which executives operate. Some of the actions of executives are predictable. However, there are some actions that are unprofessional in nature. Therefore, an individual must be cognizant of the mannerisms and behavioral patterns of executives to become aware of the repercussions of such practice.
For this literature, executives are deemed to be individuals who hold a senior position within the organization. Various organizations refer to them by different names such as supervisor, manager, senior manager and director, among others. Executives are expected to provide directions for the organization so that it can continue to grow under their supervision. Both small and large organizations will have executives with varying numbers, as they help to provide guidance to the organization. As a point of clarity reading onward, executives in this literature will not include non-executives as they do not form part of the board of directors as a requirement for corporate governance for listed organizations.
Many people would like to be at the executive level. However, many challenges exist at this level. As such, only those persons who are properly prepared may be able to function efficiently and effectively. Executives are expected to make decisions for the benefit of the entire organization, but this is not always done, as some executives may have their own motives that are not always in keeping with the policies of the organization. 
There are two sections of focus. The first examines the formal activities of executives while the second focuses on informal activities of executives of which you may have heard but have not understood. This literature also provides you with an insight of what happens with executives at various meetings. Informal meetings have many surprising aspects, which may allow you to have a more in-depth exposure and to prepare your mind for some of the activities that are necessary for persons who will become executives.
Formal meetings are not designed to hear persons’ concerns but to plan for the organization’s future. Preparing and reviewing minutes of meetings is essential, as it contains all important aspects that happened at the meeting. If such information was not recorded, then it might be forgotten, and efforts will be duplicated by other executives.
It is further important to recognize that strategic planning helps an organization to have a plan for several periods. When each executive submits their plan, then decisions are made. An agreement is important, if the plan will materialize. Decisions made by each executive and as a collective body are expected to help with the future of the organization. Coordinating the resources available for any organization will contribute toward its success. Organizations may have limited resources, but executives must make the best use of the resources available to them. Communication between executives and junior employees must occur regularly, and all relevant persons must be informed in a timely manner. Plans that are agreed upon must be executed then reviewed. Once a decision is reached, timely adjustment is expected. Paramount to such decision-making processes, ethical practices must underpin all discussions and use of resources.
Informal meetings often take a similar format as a formal one, but the motives behind the meetings are not for the benefit of the organization. Executives sometimes meet to become involved in internal politics. Employees feel victimized by the activities and attitudes of executives. When some executives have power, they may then use it for their own benefit and influence others to engage in activities that are harmful to their career and to the organization. 
There are times that executives will have a time of social gathering or a time of feasting. However, such events must help the image of the organization, rather than harm the image of the organization.