Hosting tips
Whether you are hosting a group or one-on-one Braindate, here are some tips on how to successfully host a Braindate.
When you post a topic
- Make sure you enter relevant keywords so we can find your topic easily
- Explain what ‘inspired’ this topic, so we can understand the context of the conversation
- Choose the right ‘conversation style’ so we know what to expect in terms of knowledge sharing and conversation format
- Post on social media using an AIEC Braindate promo tile to ask others to join your Braindate!
- When a new person joins your group, post a welcome message in the chat. E.g., Hi [name]! Looking forward to connecting with you next week!
- Message your fellow attendees via chat with any relevant information, articles, useful links and or questions to think about before the planned Braindate.
- To minimise the number of no-shows, send a reminder message the day before. E.g., Looking forward to our Braindate tomorrow!
- For one-on-one braindates, make sure you answer all requests
In the lead up to the braindate
- When a new person joins your group, post a welcome message in the chat. E.g., Hi [name]! Looking forward to connecting with you next week!
- Message your fellow attendees via chat with any relevant information, articles, useful links and or questions to think about before the planned Braindate.
- To minimise the no. of no-shows, send a reminder message the day before. E.g., Looking forward to our Braindate tomorrow!
- For one-on-one braindates, make sure you answer all requests
During the braindate
Braindates are not presentations, they are conversations that stem from a shared interest.
Whether it’s a one-on-one or group braindate, keep the following tips in mind to lead a meaningful braindate for everyone involved:
- Make sure everyone introduces themselves and contributes to the discussion
- Ask the participant(s) what interested them about the topic.
- Be transparent and honest about your own experience related to the topic: you don’t need to be an expert to lead a braindate.
- Don’t forget that everyone has something interesting they can add to the conversation: adopt a beginner’s mindset.
- Don’t forget to share contact information: many great relationships started with a simple conversation.
For group braindates
- Use the first five minutes for intention-sharing and ensuring everyone gets to introduce themselves to the group
- Use the last five minutes to wrap-up and recap on take-aways
- You can continue chatting with the group via chat messaging – this is another final way to thank the group for their contribution
After the braindate
- You can continue chatting with the group via chat messaging – this is another final way to thank the group for their contribution.