Workshops are like little power-ups for businesses. They bring people together, help them learn new things, and figure out how to do things better. Planning one might seem like a big job, but it’s really about breaking it down into small, easy steps. Get these steps right, and you can create a super helpful and memorable event that everyone loves.
Why bother with workshops anyway?
Why spend time and effort on a workshop? Simple. People learn best by doing. Reading a book or watching a video is okay, but getting together in a room, talking, trying things out – that’s where the charm happens. Workshops help people get new skills, solve tricky problems together, and feel more like a team.
First things first (what’s your big idea?)
Before you do anything further, pause and reflect. What’s the key message of this workshop? What should individuals be able to do or better understand when they leave?
Is it to teach everyone how to use a new computer program? Help the sales team talk to customers better? Get everyone thinking up new ideas? Write it down, simple and clear. This is like picking the destination on a map before you start driving. Everything else you do depends on this.
Who’s invited to this party? (your audience)
Next, think about the people who will be there. Are they new employees? Experienced managers? A mix? This changes everything. How much do they already know? What do they need help with? If you’re teaching kids about numbers, you don’t start with complicated algebra, right? Same with workshops. Tailor your content and activities to the people in the room. Make sure it feels right for them.
What’s the topic?
Your grand idea will steer you in the direction of the subject matter, but give it something the public will care about. Rather than “Marketing,” perhaps a title such as “Making Your Social Media Posts Pop.”
Ensure the title is aligned with your objective and what your group requires. If your objective is for the team to perform better together, “Building a Super Team” is more appropriate than simply “Teamwork.” Make it sound intriguing and beneficial.
Get active by making it fun
No one enjoys sitting and being lectured at for several hours. Workshops need to be engaging:
. Hands-on activities work best
Plan some activities, group discussions, role-plays, or small challenges. Get individuals engaged, talking to one another, and doing something about the subject. Individuals retain best when they do. The National Training Laboratories in Bethel, Maine, conducted a study that found individualsretain much more when they learn by doing than when they listen or read.
. Give brains a rest (and snacks)
Don’t try to cram too much in. People need time to rest their brains, grab a coffee, and chat informally. These breaks are actually super important for networking and letting ideas sink in. And everyone likes a biscuit, let’s be honest.
. Keep it simple
Use simple language. Describe things simply. Do not use jargon unless you define it first. Remember describing something to a younger person – you’d use simple words and examples they could grasp. Do the same here.
The practical stuff (where and when?)
Now for the things you actually have to do to make it happen.
. Choose the proper place
Is it online or in a room? If it’s a room, is it spacious enough? Is it naturally lit? Is it accessible? Ensure the area suits the activities you have scheduled. You don’t want to attempt group work in a small cupboard.
. Find a good time
Consider when your people are available and likely to be paying attention. Mid-week, perhaps late morning or early afternoon, usually works. Steer clear of Friday afternoons if you desire individuals to focus.
What equipment do you require? Tables? Chairs? Projector?
Ah, yes, the equipment. You’ll likely need tables and chairs arranged to encourage interaction. You will definitely need to have a projector or a screen to display slides or video presentations. Sound system? Microphones? Clickers? Maybe flip charts and writing markers? This is where planning ahead is key. You don’t want to be scrambling for a charger five minutes before you start.
Adding a little extra sparkle
Need to make your workshop an even greater hit?
. Invite a special guest
Perhaps someone from outside your business who is a true authority on the subject? Or someone from another department with interesting insights? A fresh voice adds real interest.
. Give them something to take away
Give them a handout of salient points, a list of references, or even a small notebook and pen. Something that can be written on helps people remember what they’ve learned and carry on using the knowledge.
. Leave space for socialising
Seriously, don’t hurry people out the door. Give a bit of time at the end, or between breaks, for people to mingle with one another. This casual networking is where ideas are born and friendships are forged.
A little bit of proof
Running workshops isn’t just a nice idea—it becomes part of how you do business. Companies that invest in training and development tend to do better. A report by the Association for Talent Development (ATD) found that companies with strong learning cultures have higher levels of employee engagement and productivity.
When people feel like their company is helping them learn and grow, they’re happier and work harder. Simple as that. Workshops are a big part of building that learning culture.
The tech stuff (don’t let it trip you up)
Remember we talked about needing projectors, sound systems, and maybe microphones? This stuff, the Audio-Visual (AV) equipments, is super important. A workshop where people can’t see the screen or hear the speaker is frustrating for everyone.
Getting the tech right can feel a bit daunting, especially if it’s not your usual job. You need the right equipment, set up correctly, and someone there who knows what to do if a cable comes loose or the internet flickers.
Trying to manage projectors, screens, microphones, and speakers yourself on the day can pull your focus from actually running the workshop and engaging with attendees.
This is where getting some help is a brilliant idea. For your business workshop events, especially if you’re in London or planning something there, thinking about event production specialists makes a lot of sense. They live and breathe this stuff. They know exactly what equipment you need for the size of your room and your audience, how to set it up so it works perfectly, and they’ll be there to make sure everything runs smoothly from a technical point of view.
So, if you’re planning a business workshop event in London, look into hiring a reliable event production company like AV Productions. We can handle all the AV and technical needs, leaving you free to focus on delivering a fantastic learning experience. Finding a good team means one less thing for you to worry about, and it makes a massive difference to how professional and smooth your workshop feels.
Final takeaway
Organising a business workshop is a bit of effort, yes. But it’s also very rewarding. You’re bringing people together to learn, grow, and improve. By keeping things simple, keeping your audience in mind, making it interactive, and getting the practicalities in place (including the tech), you can make a valuable event. Don’t be shy to ask for assistance when you need it, such as with the AV. Consider working with a professional event production company, such as AV Productions. We can handle all your audio-visual requirements, making your event sound and look just right, so you can concentrate on presenting fantastic content.
