‘Walking Meetings’ Explained

Although the term walking meeting may be a new concept to you, it has actually been around for a while. The walking meeting is exactly what it says on the tin - a meeting while you walk.

We all know that a sedentary way of life can often lead to a variety of debilitating illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity. All the complications that come with being overweight, unfit and sedentary can ultimately contribute to higher than average rates of mortality which is something no one likes to think about but unfortunately is reality.

Often, due to the nature of work, you may be compelled to sit in front of a desk for many hours during the day and of course, not moving around can cause feelings of sluggishness and the last thing many of us want to do after work is do exercise. However, if you incorporate exercise into the working day while being productive at the same time, it can actually be highly beneficial, mentally, physically and professionally! Walking, whether it is on a machine, along a busy street or in the woods are all advantageous for health but it goes without saying that if you can incorporate pretty scenery, scents and sounds into your walk then the benefits will undoubtedly be much greater.

I am sure you are familiar with the name of the late Steve Jobs, who was the co-founder of Apple and of internet entrepreneur Mark Zuckerberg who co-founded Facebook amongst other great achievements. As well as both being highly successful, the other thing they have in common is that they have both advocated the walking meeting with the firm belief that it is good for your body, mind and make you better at your job!

When you are out of the office environment, although technically still at work, connection with others becomes naturally easier whether you are on the phone or have a professional companion with you. Any awkwardness is usually dissipated amongst the natural surroundings and even people who are particularly business orientated will find themselves becoming less rigid and more ‘themselves’.

Walking meetings can be used for discussions, engaging in work related conversations such as discussing feedback or even resolving conflicts amongst colleagues. Being confined to a designated meeting room or conference centre where there is artificial light and minimal ventilation can have a detrimental effect on some, resulting in a lack in both focus and energy. The formal atmosphere may inhibit being candid and open regarding certain topics whereas being outdoors seems to blow away the cobwebs. How many times have you been in a meeting and found it difficult to concentrate, found yourself not to be listening properly or even felt yourself falling asleep? I know I have!

Walking meetings can stimulate creativity and inspiration in a way that traditional meeting rooms fail. You can present walking meetings while you are the only one outdoors or you can invite others. It can often become similar to a team building exercise when you consist of a group meeting.

However, to conduct a successful walking meeting, it is important to get adequately prepared beforehand. There should be a clear agenda, and an appropriate route with the weather checked so that all participants are comfortable. Be mindful of the pace as not everyone may be as agile as they would like and be mindful also of including everyone equally. Walking meetings can be a refreshing alternative to the conventional office meeting and can promote a healthier and more dynamic working environment for everyone involved especially if it becomes a regular occurrence.