Benefits from walking meetings
Walking improves productivity, boosts energy levels, and enhances general well-being by incorporating regular movement and fresh air. Additionally, the space of the outdoors increases brain function which can help stimulate creativity, innovation, and memory. These meetings can be used to educate, inform, problem solves, socialize, make decisions and resolve conflict. These are a few of the many things that can be accomplished during a walking meeting!
Tips for organizing a walking meeting
Walking meetings are a great way to hold a meeting and boost the creativity and energy of your participants. However, keep in mind walking meetings may not be an appropriate alternative for all meetings. If individuals have factors that prevent their participation in this activity do not hold walking meetings go with the regular meeting. If you are able to hold a walking meeting, below are a few tips to consider:
- Ask permission and give notice when possible – not everyone will be prepared on the day of the meeting! Ask them ahead of time so they can prepare, bring proper shoes, and/or so they can say “maybe next time”.
- Host the meeting at the same time you originally scheduled and keep it the same length of time.
- Come to the meeting prepared – a walking meeting should be productive just like a sit-down meeting.
• Bring a small notebook and pen to take notes or utilize your technology.
• Make sure you have a way to track time. Keep meeting on track and on time.
• Prepare an agenda and think through items that will work well with walking, ie brainstorming, problem-solving, etc. - Make accommodations for those who want to join but might be hesitant to walk for various reasons. Adjustments could include frequent stops, shorter walks, the use of benches, or adjustments in speed!
- Plan your route – this can include stops along the way to jot down notes, a destination, and length! You can find walking routes by clicking here.
- Be conscious of weather – if the weather is not cooperative (as typical of Iowa weather) bring the meeting back to its original format, consider an indoor walk, and/or anticipate outdoor gear – boots, sunscreen, umbrella, jacket, etc.
- Be conscious of the time of day – peak times on campus will make walking areas more crowded.
- Consider the location – busy and noisy places (construction zones, traffic, etc.) may not be ideal for productive conversation!
- Finally, make a backup plan in the case that a walk is not possible. This includes scheduling rooms for the meeting, notifying participants, providing meeting agenda, etc.
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