About Corporate Meetings
In the corporate world, meetings make the world go round. Meetings can be a forum for sharing ideas or generating new ones, a way of finding solutions to problems, and help you make important decisions to keep your business moving forward. And while meetings can sometimes be an unwelcome distraction, without them business would come to a standstill.
Corporate meetings also come in many different forms. They can range from the traditional formal board meeting where crucial decisions are made and minutes kept, to informal brainstorming sessions between colleagues looking for innovative inspiration.
But if your next corporate meeting is going to be as productive and successful as possible, you’ll need to find the best meeting space for the type of discussion you have planned. The good news is that whether you’re planning a casual chat over coffee, a team building meeting, a planning discussion or a formal meeting, you’ll be able to find a space to suit.
The Best Corporate Meeting Venues
From setting the agenda to working out who needs to attend, there’s a whole lot that goes into planning a successful meeting. That said, it all starts with the venue — find the right meeting location and you’ll put your team in the frame of mind to develop ideas, work together, and make key decisions.
- Conference and Convention Centers
Planning a big meeting? You’ll find a host of suitable corporate meeting venues at your nearest conference or convention center. Not only can you find spaces to suit gatherings of all sizes, but you can also find room layouts to suit everything from boardroom-style pow-wows to classroom settings.
- Business Centers
Business centers can be your go-to if you’re looking for traditional corporate meeting locations. From small offices that suit two to four people through to large boardrooms, you’ll find spaces to suit a variety of meeting types.
- Cafes, Restaurants, and Bars
Not all corporate meetings are formal affairs. Some of the most important decisions in the business world are made over coffee, or perhaps over a nice meal and a glass of wine. This 1920s-style speakeasy oozes character and charm, perfect for a corporate meeting with a difference.
- Sports Venues
If you’re really searching for something informal, or if you’re just planning a team-building meeting, why not try your hand at some sport? From golf and tennis courses to bowling alleys and even laser tag arenas, there are plenty of options available if you want to encourage some friendly competition to help your team bond.
What to Look for in Corporate Meeting Spaces
The best corporate meeting venue for you will vary depending on the type of discussion you’re planning. Sometimes practicality and a formal setting are paramount, while other situations call for flexible layouts, creative spaces, and a relaxed ambiance. Take some time to think about exactly what you need before you start comparing your options.
- Location
The best meeting location is one that’s easy to get to, not just for you but for all attendees. This may mean finding a space close to the office, close to the airport, close to public transport, or all of the above.
- Size and Layout
Size matters when choosing a corporate meeting space. You obviously need sufficient space to accommodate all your attendees in comfort, but you don’t want to be paying for extra space you don’t really need. It’s also essential to consider the layout of the space. Do you need a traditional conference table arrangement, a brainstorming room, a relaxed space for team building, or something you can use for a workshop or education session? In some cases, you may need a space that offers the flexibility of rejigging the layout to suit your needs.
- Facilities
Once you’ve found a few spaces that have the right size, layout, and ambiance, it’s time to make a checklist of the key facilities you need in a corporate meeting location. For example,is there ample private parking on-site? Are there enough bathrooms available? Think about other details like the AV system and whether there on-site catering facilities if needed. These are just a few of the factors to consider, so make sure to keep your list front of mind when comparing venues.
Cost
Your budget will always be a factor when you’re booking a corporate meeting room. Work out your price range in advance and be careful not to exceed it, while it’s also a good idea to shop around to find the best value for money.
Corporate Meeting Inspiration
Whether you’re building a better business, a stronger team, or new relationships, there are corporate meeting spaces available to suit a hugely diverse range of needs. It’s up to you to find the venue that ticks all the right boxes.
- Board Meetings in Conference Rooms
Sometimes a traditional meeting in a traditional meeting space is just what the doctor ordered. A conference room environment is where important decisions are made, and it gives crucial meetings the sense of prestige they deserve.
- Brainstorming Sessions in Creative Spaces
Want to encourage some creative thinking? Look for a corporate meeting venue with a twist. Instead of a boardroom, you might find a space with colorful murals, comfortable couches, and unique architecture. Who knows, it might just encourage the out-of-the-box thinking you’re hoping for.
- Client Meetings in Private Dining Rooms
Entertaining some potential new clients from out of town? Booking a private dining space can create a personalized experience for your guests, plus give you a chance to discuss important business without being disturbed.
- Team Building Meetings in Sports Settings
Encouraging co-workers to form stronger relationships and work better together isn’t always easy. Sometimes it helps to take them out of the normal work environment so they can have some fun together, show their competitive side, and form friendships. To do that, why not host a team building golf tournament, bowling competition, or softball game?