A Return to Gathering

As we tentatively plan to emerge from the pandemic, we are hearing from many of our clients that they are considering some semblance of in person return to the physical office space in September. Simultaneously, many organizations are electing to offer their employees the option of continued virtual work or a hybrid method.

Although the Delta variant may be delaying a full in person return, it is inevitable that we will be looking at how we gather in a professional capacity, especially as we adapt to a hybrid model in many organizations. This is an excellent opportunity to revisit how and why we meet and gather, and how we can continue to create inclusive cultures.

In her book mentioned above, Priya Parker defines a gathering as “the conscious bringing together of people for a reason.” As we regroup post-pandemic, consider which meetings and gatherings are REALLY necessary. Haven’t we all sat in a meeting that we are thinking “This could have been an email”? Be intentional about both why and when you are bringing people together. Don’t hold onto meetings out of nostalgia, if the purpose isn’t clear, or if it isn’t yielding results.

How do you know if you actually need to meet in person? In this Harvard Business Review article, Rae Ringel recommends considering complexity, task vs relationship, modality, and facilitator skill sets when identifying the way (and if!) a meeting should occur. In addition, it is critical to consider the impact a hybrid model has on not only your team’s work plan, but also inclusivity. Hybrid models require a finesse and intentionality around inclusivity with various modalities of connecting at the same time (Zoom, in person, etc).