Are you thinking of hosting an off-site corporate meeting? This option is growing in popularity, and for good reason. Offsite meetings in unconventional venues add value in multiple, often unexpected ways. Although there is an additional cost to an offsite meeting, the benefits can easily outweigh the expense when properly planned and executed.

A Business Meeting Venue Should …

1. IGNITE CREATIVITY

A primary and highly valued advantage to an offsite meeting is increased creativity. Outside-the-box thinking is crucial for business strategy. A space that is grand and beautiful is much more apt to spark solutions that are steeped in ingenuity and creativity. 

By taking your team to a business meeting venue that is beautiful and comfortable, you are instilling a sense of value for the meeting. Attendees will automatically be encouraged and inspired simply because you took the initiative to plan an event away from the boardroom. 

2. INVITE COLLABORATION

Unified team spirit is priceless. Plan times during your meeting to encourage engagement between attendees. Being in a neutral location, you can encourage your team to be authentic and build relationships. 

When meeting at the office, the tendency is for everyone to stay in their role. By meeting in a neutral location this helps everyone think outside of their typical role. One unexpected advantage is that often, you can get a glimpse of skills you may have otherwise been unaware of within your team.

3. SHOW APPRECIATION

Let’s face it, a box of doughnuts is a pretty uninspired way to say thank you. Staff that feels appreciated will, typically, work harder and extend more loyalty to their employer than workers that don’t feel their work is appreciated. 

Taking some time to plan a meeting for your crew that benefits them will boost morale far more effectively than a token pastry in the middle of the boardroom table. 

4. PIQUE INTEREST

Not only does an inspiring venue awaken creativity, but it also helps your staff feel like a vested part of the company. Adding purpose gives a refreshing change of pace for workdays that might otherwise feel mundane. By inviting your team members to an offsite meeting, your investment shows that their work is valued.  

When planning an offsite event, make sure that the venue chosen meets your criteria and will serve your goals well. Know and communicate your goals with all potential locations to ensure success. 

  • If the main goal of your meeting is to educate, make sure there is sufficient A/V equipment and ample workspace. 
  • If you are hoping to help your team become more cohesive by planning team-building exercises, make sure there is enough room to execute the activities. 
  • If brainstorming sessions and outside the box creative thinking are a key goal, look for ways you can form small groups while still offering the flexibility to gather together for big, long-term project planning. Also, a grand venue with natural light and beautiful surroundings always helps get those creative juices flowing. 
  • Offering your team refreshment, an elegant space where they can relax and be entertained while enjoying a delectable meal will go a long way in achieving your goal. 

At The Bowden, offsite corporate meetings are one of our specialties. From audio/visual equipment to crystal chandeliers, our space is ready to educate and inspire your team. Reach out to us, today.  

Profits of all events held at The Bowden will benefit The Greater Keller Women’s Club Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The Bowden in partnership with GKWC is committed to building community by providing educational scholarships to deserving local area high school students, donations to local non-profit organizations helping families in need and in volunteering countless hours of service.  When you host your event at The Bowden, you are helping to support this mission and improve the lives of those in need.