How to Impress People in Meetings Without Trying

Meetings can be tedious and lengthy gauntlets where you unfortunately will look bad if it doesn't seem like you are paying attention. There's nothing a boss likes better than someone who seems really "on top of it" at a meeting. Here are a few things you can do while goofing off to make it appear like you are paying serious attention:

+ Translate percentages into 
fractions: If someone says that “25 percent of people clicked 
on this button,” quickly chime in 
with “So about one in four,” and make a note. Everyone will nod 
in agreement, secretly impressed. Statistics and percentages always seem to make more sense in plain language and you'll look like some sort of an analytical genius for saying the obvious.

+ If there is a powerpoint presentation (which is sheer hell for most workers), randomly ask the presenter to go back 
a slide at some random juncture. Then stare at the slide and pretend to jot something down quickly. Do this at any point in the presentation, and you’ll look like you’re paying closer attention than anyone else.

+ Nod continuously while pretending to take notes: Always bring 
a notepad with you. "Take notes" 
by writing down one word from every sentence you hear. Nod continuously while doing so. Otherwise, make your grocery lists or what have you.

+ There comes a point in most meetings when everyone is chiming in, except you (because you're mind is elsewhere). This is 
a great point to say “Um, can we take a step back here?” Followed by a quick “I just want to better know 
problem are we trying to solve?” And just like that, you are the one who cuts through the fluff and clutter to the heart of the matter. Better yet, others have to answer to you, thus creating that whole "straight-talking leadership" aura for yourself.