Rethinking Business Meetings: Fresh Alternatives to the Boardroom

1. Walk-and-Talk Meetings

One of the simplest and most invigorating alternatives is the walking meeting.  Instead of sitting around a table, team members or partners walk together — around a nearby park, through city streets, or even along a beach. This style of meeting offers several benefits:

• Improved focus and creativity: Movement and fresh air stimulate the brain, often leading to more dynamic conversations and fresh ideas.

• Health benefits: Walking helps reduce stress, improves circulation, and combats the sedentary lifestyle common in office jobs.

• More casual, open dialogue: The informal setting helps reduce tension and can lead to more honest and productive conversations.

2. Coffee Shop Conversations

Meeting at a local café or coffee shop introduces a relaxed, neutral setting.  This can be particularly useful for client meetings, one-on-ones, or brainstorming sessions.  The background hum of conversation can be energising, and a change in scenery  often helps shift perspective.

Just be mindful of privacy concerns — these meetings are obviously best for non-confidential topics.

3. Outdoor Meetings by the Water or in Green Spaces

Natural environments such as parks, lakesides, or coastal areas offer an alternative backdrop that supports strategic thinking and open dialogue. These settings can reduce stress, foster focus, and encourage more open communication.

When to consider this format:

• For planning sessions that benefit from fresh perspective.

• When aiming to reset team dynamics or discuss long-term goals.

• As part of leadership retreats or vision-setting exercises.

Choose a location that allows for uninterrupted conversation and provides suitable amenities such as seating, shade, or accessibility. While informal in setting, these meetings should still be approached with clear objectives and a focused agenda.

4. Activity-Based Meetings

Sometimes the best ideas come when you’re not sitting still.  Consider planning an activity-based meeting, such as:

• Mini-golf or bowling: Great for informal team bonding or casual project discussions.

• Cooking classes or workshops: Encourage teamwork and creativity.

• Volunteering as a group: Combines purpose with collaboration and builds stronger connections.

These experiences can enhance relationships and morale while still leaving space for meaningful dialogue.

5. Remote Field Trips or Virtual Co-Working

If your team is remote, try a virtual version of these alternatives. Host walking meetings where participants join from different locations on a call while walking, or encourage people to work from a local café and check in with a video meeting from a relaxed setting.

Even digital meetings can benefit from breaking the “desk-only” mentality.

Final Thoughts

Redefining where we meet can redefine how we meet.  By getting outside, moving around, or trying something new, we can tap into more energy, creativity, and human connection than the average boardroom might allow. The most effective meetings are not always about slides and agendas — they’re about conversations, collaboration, and connection. Next time you’re planning a meeting, ask yourself: Could this be better over a walk, a latte, or a round of mini-golf?