Walking Meetings: A Fresh Perspective on Team Collaboration
Are you tired of the same old office room meetings? Want to boost creativity and productivity while getting some fresh air and exercise? Why not consider hosting a walking meeting! Not only are they a great way to break up the monotony of the workday, but they can also have a significant impact on your team’s morale and overall performance.
Here’s a guide to hosting a safe and effective walking meeting near your office:
Choose a Safe Route:
- Local Parks: Many offices are located near parks or green spaces. These offer a peaceful and scenic environment for a walking meeting.
- Quiet Streets: If a park isn’t an option, choose a quiet street with minimal traffic.
- Pedestrian Paths: Consider nearby pedestrian paths or canal towpaths, which often provide a pleasant and safe walking route.
Plan Your Route:
- Consider Distance: The distance should be appropriate for the duration of the meeting. A short, brisk walk can be energizing, while a longer, leisurely stroll can be more conducive to in-depth discussions.
- Accessibility: Ensure the route is accessible to all team members, taking into account any physical limitations or disabilities.
- Reccy: Consider walking the route first ‘a reccy’ and time
Set a Clear Agenda:
- Define Objectives: Before the meeting, clearly outline the goals and objectives.
- Prepare Discussion Points: Have specific topics ready to discuss during the walk.
- Assign Roles: Consider assigning specific roles to team members, such as someone to remember key points to jot them down when they get back to the office or record on their mobile.
Dress Appropriately:
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
- Footwear: Choose sturdy footwear that provides good support.
- Layers: Be prepared for changing weather conditions by dressing in layers and waterproof recommended in the UK!
Safety First:
- Check Weather: Be aware of the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
- Visibility: Wear reflective clothing, especially if walking in low-light conditions.
- Group Together: Walk in a group, especially in areas with low visibility.
- Mindful of Traffic: Be aware of traffic and cross roads safely.
Encourage Active Listening:
- Adjust Your Pace: Slow down your walking pace, this will give you more time to focus on the conversation and less time worrying about tripping or falling.
- Take Breaks: Every so often, stop walking and stand still to have a more focused conversation. This will allow for deeper engagement.
- Practice Active Listening: Focus on what the other person is saying, rather than thinking about what you want to say next. This will help you stay present in the conversation.
- Avoid Distractions: Minimise distractions like phones and tablets.
Embrace the Outdoors:
- Enjoy the Fresh Air: Take advantage of the fresh air and natural surroundings.
- Use the Environment: Use the environment to spark creativity and innovative thinking.
- Relax and Recharge: Walking can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
By following these tips, you can host successful walking meetings that boost productivity, improve team morale, and promote a healthier work-life balance. So, why not give it a try.
Check out also the benefits of walking in winter : Benefits of walking in winter – Corporate Wellbeing Events (wellbeingwalk.co.uk)
Want to know more then have a look at this article : https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2017/sep/12/get-out-of-my-office-how-to-switch-to-walking-meetings
The Wellbeing Walks Team
