Going to a business conference is a lot like being back in class – lectures, listening, note taking, and a lot of people you don't know. Four hours in, and you're staring at the clock. Your mind wanders. You just want the day to be over so that you can head to the bar or networking event. It doesn't have to be this way.
With Playworks, these events have the potential to be more than workshops and can enhance the networking opportunities. By shifting how we think about play, we discover new realms of creativity, through which we are able to improve overall productivity and office morale. Conferences CAN BE great opportunities for individuals to step outside their comfort zones and learn more about programs doing work similar to their own.
Playworks facilitates this by getting people out of their shells, and into conversation and play. A chance to take a break from panels and talks and stretch both legs and social skills will sharpen the mind and focus the attention. Just ask the participants of the Sustainable Brands conference. From June 7-10, those conference-goers in Monterey got to experience the importance of incorporating play into the work environment. Playworks San Francisco staff reminded everyone how much fun and important recess period could be by running games during networking breaks. They started these break out sessions with attention getters and ice breakers, helping break down barriers between individuals and stimulating conversation in unexpected ways. The overall spirit of the conference rose with the addition of just a few playful techniques that kept people engaged, enthused, and connected. Don't let your conference be a boring trip back to elementary school – Call Playworks, and let the recess bell ring.
