Imagine going for a walk in the park… and somehow expanding your professional network tenfold. In fact, what if a simple change of scenery could make all the difference in your stakeholder relationships?

Lisa Partridge from Sixcomms had this exact thought, which is where her “Walk and Talk” group came about. From it, Lisa took her passion for communication outdoors and invited like-minded individuals to join her in exploring the parks of Singapore. What began as a casual idea blossomed into a thriving community with over 100 members that helped her expand her network, forge deeper relationships, and communicate more authentically. 

So, how do you bring non-traditional networking into your comms?

The method

These “Walk and Talk” sessions are not just casual strolls; they are structured (but relaxed!) opportunities for connection that ensure those who might be introverted or less comfortable in traditional networking settings feel at ease. The walks begin with introductions, often using a format that allows participants to share what they love, loathe, or are currently learning. The group then tends to have naturally flowing conversation, with prompts throughout that are provided by the leader. This makes sure the participants get the most out of their time together.

Why it works

The benefits of getting outdoors to communicate are plentiful. For many, especially those who are quieter or more introverted, walking and talking allows for more genuine connections. The casual, relaxed environment of a walk in nature makes conversations feel more organic, and the shared experience of being outdoors helps to break down barriers.

In fact, some participants have formed strong connections that extend beyond the walks, leading to business opportunities and even friendships. The diversity of the group, with members from various cultural backgrounds and age groups, adds richness to the conversations and connections.

Applying it to your team

Lisa’s “Walk and Talk” method isn’t just for entrepreneurs—it has clear applications in the corporate world as well. Whether you’re bringing together teams during a merger, navigating a restructure, or simply trying to foster better communication within your organisation, incorporating outdoor conversations could be a game-changer.

To get started, try consistency and ease; for example, schedule walks at regular intervals—whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—and ensure they’re accessible for everyone. The focus should be on making the experience enjoyable and stress-free, so that participants look forward to it rather than viewing it as just another task on their to-do list. You could incorporate ‘walking meetings’, where you meet up and go for a walk to discuss a topic that needed to be a meeting, but wasn’t too intensive it had to be done formally. 

In fact, the simpler the better! By taking conversations outside, you can create a space where genuine connections can flourish. Whether you’re looking to improve your team’s communication or simply seeking a new way to network, consider taking a walk in the park. You might be surprised at the connections you’ll make.

Get into the change comms world!

Check out my book, Change Isn’t Hard, for more tips and templates to help you navigate the complexities of change communication.