Back To Nature
An outdoor site can breathe new life into your meetings.
Looking for a new place to hold your next meeting? Try heading
outside. A work session at a local park with plenty of fresh air
and sunshine may be just what your staff members need to relax, get
their creative juices flowing and increase their productivity. But
don't just grab a few soft drinks and think you're ready.
An outdoor meeting takes as much--if not more--planning than one
held inside.
As vice president of operations for the International Franchise
Association, Debra A. Moss plans a lot of meetings. Her advice:
- Reserve a spot with shelter. True, the goal is to be
outside, but you also want protection from too much sun and the
possibility of rain.
- Find out what else is going on. Be sure that other
events scheduled for the same day won't distract your
group.
- Arrange a comfortable work area. Does the park have
tables? Do you need to bring chairs or blankets? Also, be sure the
restrooms are clean and conveniently located.
- Take advantage of recreational offerings. Plan your
agenda so participants can use the park's amenities during
breaks or after the meeting.
- Plan food carefully. Make lists so you don't forget
anything, and have plenty of coolers on hand so food doesn't
spoil.
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