I recently read a blog by Samantha Whitehorne ( http://associationsnow.com/2017/04/read-meeting-planning-lessons-book-clubs/ that I would like to share with you on how the successful elements of book clubs can be applied to meetings.

Below are some of the key takeaways from Whitehorne’s blog:

• Most of us have participated in a book club at one time or another and know that hearing everyone’s viewpoint on the same subject matter is a great way to learn from one another.  
  • Do you allow time after a speaker’s presentation to have attendees interact with one another?  Ask your speaker for 3-5 attendee discussion questions that each table can discuss.  Or ask the person sitting next to you to share their key take away from the presentation.
• Book clubs allow us the opportunity to unwind from the stress of work or home.
  • Does your meeting provide an opportunity for your attendees to unwind through a wellness initiative- like early morning yoga, stretch breaks to music, or a post lunch walk?
• Book clubs foster community and relationships.

• In planning your program, do you provide dedicated time for attendee networking whether during breaks or lunch? Do you provide an attendee roster for attendees to follow-up with one another post-meeting?

Hope these book club tips inspire you to look beyond your program agenda for additional ways to make your meeting a meaningful experience for your attendees.