The duties of meeting and event planning fall on different people across companies, but one thing is consistent. Planning neuro-inclusive meetings is key to engagement and retention.
MPG has lots of ideas on how to plan events that are inclusive and accessible. And when it comes to neuro-inclusive meetings, we know a thing or two about how you can blow away your attendees.
Take a Stand
First, of the ‘little details’ make the biggest difference. For example, just by taking away the stigma that everyone must sit still for hours on end. Inviting people to stand along the sides of the room at high-top tables may keep folks engaged.
Welcome Fidgeting
Next, sprinkling fidget items around the tables gives folks something to do with their hands and will minimize the urge to check their devices for emails.
Offer Options
Give attendees ways to opt in or opt out of certain activities. Consider everyone has a battery, and different people charge those batteries in different ways. If someone needs some down time to charge, forcing them into a networking event won’t serve them. Alternatively, if someone recharges with conversation and connection, forcing them into a meditation between sessions might not be the right move either.
Quiet Zones
To continue on the topic of recharging, creating space for quiet zones is greatly appreciated. Conveniently, quiet zones don’t hurt the folks that aren’t interested in them. Win-win! Many neurodivergent people find the stimulus of large meetings and conferences to be overwhelming, and finding a quiet room to take a break in can be very helpful.
Communicate Thoroughly
Recognizing that some details are not finalized until the 11th hour, there are usually plenty of details that are locked down earlier on in the planning process. If maps of the conference layout or lists of meetings and breakout sessions can be provided in advance, it helps people plan their time and manage their energy.
Individual Tips & Tricks
Finally, check out our older post on ADHD-friendly meetings for some tips individuals can consider when planning for a conference, off-site, or other marathon meeting day.
Are you on the hook to plan a team meeting, or a large company-wide event? Mullins Professional Group loves helping you think through details to make it a great experience for all. Reach out when planning neuro-inclusive meetings, and we can help you build something great!
