I have had a comment from someone who signs herself " Distracted". This is it.

"I find it difficult to get my boss to focus on what I have to say when we meet and discuss things. I feel as though he really just wants to have a social chat when we meet. We get most work done when we are on the phone or via email and it's often not ideal. How can I get him to focus more and agree on a plan each time we meet?"

Here's my response. I think it might have some relevance to other, similar situations

Sounds like "Distracted" has a fairly easy relationship with her boss so speaking to him should not be a terribly difficult conversation.

In a situation like this, you should start by thinking through the reason you are initiating the conversation

and the outcome you want from it. Focus on finding a positive outcome that works for both of you, in this case it would probably be use your time together more efficiently to plan work.

Then decide exactly what your conversation is about. Do you intend to raise one specific instance when you had a social chat, or do you want to bring up the pattern of interaction that has developed?

Open the conversation in a non- threatening way, for example, "Can we talk about our meetings?" or "Can we look at how we plan work?"

Then start with the facts that support your concern. Describe one, or more, instances when you have planned work by mail or telephone instead of using the time in your meetings.

Next, explain your feelings about the situation and your concern. You can maintain an easy tone to the conversation by starting with a positive comment on your having time to talk and to get to know each other. Then explain your concern. How do you feel about the situation? Frustrated...inefficient...feel a need to use time together better?

DON'T at this point offer your suggestion for what you want him or her to do! Instead, ASK how he or she sees the situation. It's an invitation to dialogue. You have had your say, now it's time to hear your boss's side.
Once you are in dialogue LISTEN carefully. You both have valid views of the situation. When you have heard each other out, you can move to agreeing how you will work together from here on.