If you work in an office infiltrated with synthetic light, machines, telephones and a sterility that, well, just gets old, you should consider having your meetings on the go.
Founder and CEO of Digital Royalty and Digital Royalty University, Amy Jo Martin, is an advocate of walk and talk meetings. She feels strongly that getting out of the office and into the fresh air promotes creativity and allows people to be more focused and efficient.
Studies clearly show that taking frequent breaks from sitting at your desk can boost productivity and allow you to think more clearly.
Moving your meetings to a place where you can walk, especially if it is outdoors, is a great idea and can often lead to an elevated mood and feelings of accomplishment. Sitting all day in front of your desk can often leave you feeling lifeless and unproductive.
Martin feels that a little burst of sunshine and fresh air do wonders for creativity and may even help spark a brilliant idea.
Tips for Walking and Talking Meetings
- For best results, keep your walking meeting small so that everyone can be heard. Martin recommends groups of two or three people.
- Know where you are going before you start. Have a basic route planned out for your meeting. It is great if you have a park nearby or a walking trail so that you can stay safe while you talk.
- Bring someone with you to record your meeting, that way no one has to worry about taking notes.
- Turn off your cellphones so that you can concentrate fully on the walk and talk meeting.
- Bring running shoes or comfortable walking shoes to wear. You don’t want to be caught in a walk and talk meeting with 3-inch heels.
- Be sure to stretch a little after you finish your walk and talk meeting so that you don’t stiffen up.
- Carry a bottle of water with you, especially on hot days, to stay hydrated.
If your place of employment does not currently conduct walk and talk meetings, approach your supervisor with the suggestion. Many employers are open to new ways to increase productivity and will be very surprised to find how effective these meetings on the move really are.
-The Alternative Daily
