11 ways to ensure global townhall success

Two weeks into a new role, I hosted my first companywide meeting.

It was a transformational moment that’s led to my curiosity for innovating and perfecting this pivotal element of employee experience. This article shares lessons I’ve learned from planning All Hands meetings and best practices from peers in internal communications.

Leading townhalls and all-staff gatherings is an incredible honor and a huge responsibility. It takes significant time, resilience and creativity. These recommendations strive to help anyone host an epic experience, whether your team is virtual or in-person.

“We are gathered here today.” It’s a famous phrase at weddings, but relatable to All Hands meetings as a reminder to elevate the experience to be as memorable as special occasions.

Now, fill in the blank with what your organization hopes All Hands should accomplish. To start the strategic planning, meet with leaders—seek out their perspective and turn this vision into an All Hands mission statement. Bring this concept to a few focus groups of employees at various levels to ensure it aligns with their aspirations. Thousands of hours of employee time is allocated to All Hands—it must be meaningful to them and incorporate their ideas.