The Power of Mobile Meetings for Active Communication

Imagine boosting your creativity by 60% simply by changing how you conduct your meetings. Sounds too good to be true. According to a Stanford University study, that’s exactly what walking can do for your creative output. Welcome to the world of walking meetings – a game-changer in how you work and collaborate.

What exactly is a walking meeting? Simply put, it’s a meeting conducted while walking, typically outdoors or in a spacious indoor area. Instead of sitting around a conference table, you engage in discussions while on the move. Walking meetings are gaining popularity in modern workplaces, and for good reason. They offer a refreshing break from the traditional office environment, promote well-being, and can spark innovation in ways you might not expect.

Let’s explore why you should consider stepping out of the conference room for your next meeting.

Benefits of Walking Meetings

Physical health

By participating in walking meetings, you’re doing your body a big favour. Regular walking can improve your cardiovascular health, boost your energy levels, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity. It’s an easy way to incorporate more physical activity into your workday without sacrificing productivity. You might find yourself feeling more energised and experiencing fewer health-related absences.

Mental health

Walking meetings aren’t just good for your body; they’re a boost for your mental health too. The combination of physical activity and exposure to nature (if you’re walking outdoors) can significantly reduce your stress levels. The rhythmic nature of walking has a calming effect on your mind, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve your overall mood. You might notice increased job satisfaction and a better sense of well-being after incorporating walking meetings into your routine.

Productivity and creativity

Remember that 60% boost in creativity we mentioned earlier? That’s one of the most compelling reasons to try walking meetings. The physical act of walking stimulates blood flow to your brain, leading to improved cognitive function. You might find yourself coming up with more innovative ideas, solving problems more efficiently, and engaging in more dynamic discussions. The change of scenery can also help you approach topics from fresh perspectives.

Building relationships

Walking side by side with your colleagues creates a more egalitarian atmosphere compared to sitting across a table. You might find it easier to speak more openly and honestly, as the informal nature of walking meetings can break down hierarchical barriers. This can help you build stronger relationships with your coworkers, leading to better teamwork and collaboration in the long run.

How to Have an Effective Walking Meeting

Choose the right setting

The success of a walking meeting often depends on the chosen location. Quiet parks, company grounds, or even peaceful urban streets can serve as excellent venues. The key is to select a route that’s relatively free from distractions and safe for all participants. Consider factors like weather, accessibility, and the nature of the discussion when choosing a location.

Prepare for the meeting

As with any meeting, preparation is crucial. Set a clear agenda and communicate it to all participants in advance. Ensure everyone is comfortable with the walking format and aware of any necessary preparations (comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing). It’s also wise to have a backup indoor location in case of inclement weather.

Start the meeting

Begin by briefly reviewing the agenda and setting expectations for the walk. Establish a comfortable pace that suits everyone. It’s often helpful to start with some light conversation to ease into the meeting and get everyone in a relaxed, open mindset.

Manage the discussion

Keeping a walking meeting on track requires some finesse. Use natural pauses in the conversation to steer the discussion back to key points if it veers off course. Ensure everyone has an opportunity to contribute by occasionally changing walking positions. Be mindful of time and pace to ensure all necessary topics are covered.

Conclude the meeting

As you approach the end of your route, summarise the key points discussed, and any decisions made. Clearly outline next steps and responsibilities. It’s often helpful to send a follow-up email after the meeting to reinforce these points and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Tips and Considerations

Tech considerations

While the goal is to step away from screens, sometimes note-taking is necessary. Consider designating one person to take notes on a smartphone or use a voice recording app (with everyone’s permission) to capture key points. Remember to speak clearly and at a reasonable volume to ensure all participants can hear and be heard.

Proposing a walking meeting

When suggesting a walking meeting, remember to emphasise the benefits we’ve discussed. Start small – perhaps with a one-on-one meeting or a short team check-in. Share positive experiences and encourage feedback. As comfort levels increase, you can integrate walking meetings more regularly into your work routine.

Virtual Walking Meetings

For situations where outdoor or in person walking meetings aren’t feasible, walking pads offer an excellent alternative. These under-desk treadmills allow you to walk at a slow pace while working or participating in virtual meetings. They provide many of the same benefits as outdoor walking meetings and can be especially useful in poor weather or for remote teams.

Walking meetings represent a simple yet powerful shift in how you approach work and collaboration. By combining physical activity with productive discussions, you can simultaneously improve your health, boost creativity, enhance relationships, and increase your overall job satisfaction.

As we continue to seek ways to make our work lives more fulfilling and productive, walking meetings offer a path forward – quite literally. Why not step out of the conference room and give walking meetings a try. Experience firsthand how this innovative approach can transform your workday and boost your performance.

Have questions or want to chat about your career path? Let’s have a conversation about how we can help you. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can take your career to the next level.