Workshop or workout?

It was well intended.

Gracious thanks from the Minister for my ‘huge effort’ at the workshop.

We got there in the end. But it felt more like a workout, than a workshop.

Blood, sweat and (almost) tears.

The problem?

❌ Not enough time for design.

❌ Design by committee.

❌ Mixed purpose.

❌ The decision-makers weren’t part of the planning.

To the point where when I turned up to the workshop, the purpose on the written agenda had changed.

Rather than public thanks, I think it’s a much better sign if the workshop ends with music that can’t compete with the chatter of participants. They have connected, are energised and keen to keep talking to each other.

I fade into the background. No applause, no thanks.

Effort up front in writing a script makes for a better film.

A common complaint about Australian films is that the scripts feel under developed and rushed.

It’s the same with workshops. Effort up front makes for less effort in the room.

The best thanks is not public thanks but when you overhear a participant say, ‘who was the facilitator? I didn’t know there was one’ (true story).

Learn how to put more effort into your design, and less into your workshops, at my Backstage Masterclass.

It kicks off on 23 February. Every Tuesday, 12pm – 1.15pm, for 4 weeks. All the details and to register, are here.

If you haven’t worked with me and would like to ‘try before you buy’, please join me at my next ‘lunch and learn’ on Thursday 11 February, 12pm – 1pm. We’ll talk about some of the challenges with workshop design and I’ll share some of my tips and tricks with you.

Just comment below or email me with ‘BACKSTAGE’ in the subject line and we’ll send you the link to join.