Traditional seated meetings have long been the norm in workplaces, but the rise of standing and walking meetings is reshaping how teams connect and collaborate. These formats aim to increase energy, focus, and reduce meeting fatigue, particularly for shorter or more informal discussions.

Benefits of Standing Meetings

Standing meetings typically last 15 to 30 minutes and involve participants remaining upright instead of sitting. The physical posture itself encourages brevity, as standing for long periods can become uncomfortable. This naturally motivates participants to stay concise and focused.

Standing meetings also:

• Increase alertness and circulation, which can help attendees stay engaged.

• Reduce the temptation to multitask, as standing reduces comfort for passive activities like checking phones or laptops.

• Encourage quicker decision-making and action-oriented discussion.

Daily stand-ups or scrum meetings popular in agile teams are classic examples where standing meetings keep everyone aligned without unnecessary delay.

Benefits of Walking Meetings

Walking meetings take this concept outdoors or through hallways, combining conversation with light physical activity. This format can:

• Boost creativity, as walking stimulates brain function.

• Reduce stress and improve mood, which helps in brainstorming or conflict resolution.

• Break the monotony of the usual meeting room, refreshing participants’ perspectives.

Walking meetings are particularly effective for one-on-one catch-ups, mentoring sessions, or informal team check-ins.

When to Use Standing or Walking Meetings

Standing or walking meetings work best for:

• Quick updates or status checks.

• Brainstorming sessions requiring fresh ideas.

• Informal conversations and relationship building.

• When the meeting’s agenda is narrow and focused.

They are less suitable for meetings requiring extensive note-taking, presentations, or sensitive/confidential discussions.

Challenges and Considerations

While beneficial, these meeting types are not without challenges:

• Accessibility concerns for participants with mobility issues.

• Weather or environment limitations for walking meetings.

• Potential difficulty managing large groups standing or walking.

Facilitators should consider the group’s needs, physical abilities, and meeting objectives before choosing these formats.

Implementing Standing or Walking Meetings

To start:

1. Communicate the purpose and expected format clearly to participants.

2. Keep agendas tight and timed.

3. Choose appropriate routes for walking meetings that avoid distractions.

4. Use note-taking tools like voice memos or quick digital notes.

5. Get feedback regularly to refine the approach.

By experimenting with standing or walking meetings, teams can discover new ways to stay energized, reduce time spent sitting, and foster a culture of dynamic collaboration.