Networking Activities and Breaks Are Essential for Effective Meetings

A creative brain is one that is engaged, challenged, and...rested. Gone are the days of information-packed, no-time-to-breathe seminars and conferences. While the best events are still full of valuable content and learning opportunities, they are also designed to empower attendees to take enriching, restorative breaks. Carefully curated networking events, breakout sessions, and extended breaks are an invaluable part of today’s meeting experience.

The Importance of Breaks With Purpose

According to health and stress expert Heidi Hanna, Ph.D., (interviewed by MeetingsNet.com) taking multiple breaks throughout the day is critical to a participant’s ability to absorb and assimilate new information. Scheduling opportunities to connect with fellow conference goers, grab a healthy snack and recharge their batteries go a long way toward keeping attendees engaged and interested in the material being presented. Customizing your meeting package is one way to ensure you can schedule-in effective breaks and networking activities. The beautiful Dolce Hayes Mansion in San Jose, California goes above and beyond to make every event unique and offers a variety of memorable experiences including cooking lessons and contests, scavenger hunts, and more. Their imaginative social and teambuilding activities emphasize creativity and connectivity – giving attendees the opportunity to refresh and recharge either during or after a long day of meetings.

A New Take On Networking

There are a number of reasons people attend conferences, one of the most often cited is networking. Guests want to connect with each other. According to the Eventinterface blog, it’s imperative for meeting planners to schedule ample opportunities, throughout an event, for people to meet and mingle. The classic cocktail hour is an expected, and effective, way for guests to network. The historic Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, California puts a unique spin on it with their Olive Oil and Wine Tasting Reception. Renowned Napa Valley wineries host a tasting bar where attendees can experience some of the region’s best wine. Wine educators are on hand to share the rich history of the region and educate those interested in the finer points of wine tasting. Additionally, guests can enjoy a private tasting-bar featuring delectable California olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Olive oil company representatives will share their unique history and answer questions about the olive oil making process. It makes for an informative, inspiring evening and serves as an enriching respite. Incorporating interesting networking activities is essential to creating successful events.  From Napa Valley, California to Provence, France, Dolce Hotels and Resorts provide a unique offering of group activities to stimulate creativity, foster productivity and enable networking amongst meeting attendees.