Sep 1, 2023

“Collaborative work session” isn’t just a fancy way to say “meeting.” Meetings clarify, kick off, or level set; collaborative work sessions move projects forward and get things done. They can be internal or include the client, in-person or via online meeting software. As long as the invitees can work together, it’s a collaborative work session. The goal may be:

  • Ideating on projects (think naming, identity, messaging and more)
  • Facilitating live discussions to incorporate stakeholders’ input into works in progress
  • Bringing different internal or external teams together to align on strategic initiatives

Of course, the primary benefit of collaborative work sessions is getting things done more cooperatively, but these sessions have some unexpected benefits, too. In our experience as facilitators, we’ve discovered collaborative work sessions can…

  1. Save time
    Sure, there’s the classic lament that this meeting could’ve been an email, but sometimes, when email chains go on and on without much progress, it’s time to bring people together. Getting everyone in the same room (whether IRL or via Zoom) can save time in the long run since there’s no need to wait for others to respond to emails, which can take hours, if not weeks. Even better, especially when a project’s stakeholders are involved, potential setbacks or roadblocks can be identified and eliminated before they become issues at all, saving both teams time and expenses.
  2. Increase productivity
    Working in silos can be important, but often, getting people in the same room gives them the ability quickly solve problems or create something greater than what they started with. Different backgrounds, perspectives and experience can all contribute to greater, stronger output. Plus, discussing a project face to face can help hold people more accountable, ensuring they’ll finish the work they need.
  3. Create stronger connections (and happier employees)
    76% of employees say they enjoy collaboration, and no wonder; these work sessions help people feel more connected to each other, especially for remote workers who may not get much face time with the team—and especially for new hires. In fact, new employees who collaborate on projects 65% more likely to stay with a company than non-collaborative peers.
  4. Eliminate hierarchy
    Just 10% of employees feel like their voices are heard at work. But when higher-ups join collaborative work sessions to roll up their sleeves alongside their teammates, it not only makes employees feel heard, it also fosters inclusivity, which makes everyone feel like a valuable, respected part of the team. And with higher-ups at the table, it levels the playing field, since everyone’s working toward the same goal.
  5. Generate excitement
    Nothing creates excitement like seeing a project actually coming together thanks to contributions from each member of the team. It’s exciting to watch ideas become deliverables, and inspires pride in everyone at the table (whether that table is literal or on-screen).

Ready to host a collaborative work session of your own? We’ve got experience facilitating them. Give us a shout and we’ll get yours started.