REWORK

Preparing for a Company Meet-up

Oct 9, 2024

Twice a year, the team gathers for unforgettable meet-ups that foster deeper connections. Unique city vibes, like those from New Orleans and Atlanta, shape each gathering's atmosphere. The importance of venue selection is emphasized, showing how architecture can elevate experiences. In-person interactions deliver emotional benefits that virtual meetings can't match. Engaging presentations encourage collaboration and dialogue, making each meet-up a motivational recharge for the team.

23:22

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Quick takeaways

In-person meetings foster deeper connections and emotional recharge among employees, enhancing overall morale and engagement within the team.

The selection of a thoughtful, inspiring venue significantly influences attendee interactions, elevating the communal experience of the meet-up.

Deep dives

The Importance of In-Person Connections

Gathering in person significantly enhances the connection between employees compared to virtual meetings. The shared experience fosters a deeper sense of community, motivation, and inspiration, which cannot be replicated through online platforms. Leaders recognize that while updates and project discussions can be effectively communicated via video calls, the emotional recharge that comes from face-to-face interactions is invaluable. By focusing on how the meetups make everyone feel, rather than just task completion, teams are able to sustain higher morale and engagement over time.

Space Shapes Experience

01:55

Value Over Cost: The Long-Term Impact of Choices

01:18

Intro

2min

The Power of In-Person Connection at Company Meetups

5min

The Impact of Venue on Meetup Experiences

13min

Exploring City Vibes for Meet-Ups

2min

Engaging Presentations at Company Meet-ups

2min

Twice a year, 37signals brings the entire team together for a company meet-up. In this week’s episode of The REWORK Podcast, co-founders Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson reflect on how these meet-ups began and how they've evolved over time. They also discuss how they prepare for the meet-ups and the importance of the venue selection.

Key Takeaways:

00:50 - Jason shares the early history of 37signals' meet-ups
02:18 - Why in-person conferences build deeper connections than online meetings
06:57 - How the location and architecture of meeting spaces can elevate the experience
15:30 - Weighing the financial cost of a meet-up against the value it delivers
18:48 - Memories from the company's Atlanta gathering
22:17 - An inside look at the meet-up agenda

Links and Resources:

Books by 37signals

HEY World | HEY

The REWORK podcast

The Rework Podcast on YouTube

The 37signals Dev Blog

37signals on YouTube

@37signals on X