First of all...
DessertRat - did you mean for your name to sound like a trash bin vermin at a cake factory?
For the rest, it's not about making a meal out of the briefing, as with everything in aviation, there is a need to be professional. Surely we all want to set the right impression. As I said in an earlier post, it takes 15 seconds longer than the usual. I'll draw your attention to Ops Pt A 8.1.11, that says it all really.
If you are an SO/FO, it matters... if you are a captain and don't agree, you are beyond redemption.
I'm running for cover now.
Remember, the first rule of military aviation applies here just as appropriately...
'It's better to look good than be good!'
Anyway, what about DEFOs? I hope not.