By Theyo Team
At least since there have been more and more digital conferences, regular breaks have become mandatory. But no matter whether digital or on site: even a conference break can and should be used sensibly. On the one hand, of course, to ensure relaxation for the participants and on the other hand to create a pleasant atmosphere, which in turn reflects positively on the event. Below, we'll explain the benefits of well-planned and thoughtful meeting breaks, how to organize these breakouts, and creative break-out ideas. Here we go!
Benefits of conference breaks at your next event
Both at on-site events and especially at digital events, breaks are the be-all and end-all. A day full of input can be tiring, especially at conferences where the focus is on a specific topic. The conference break offers a welcome opportunity to give the participants a short pause for thought and to provide relaxation through light entertainment. In addition, a creative break design offers the possibility for the participants to exchange ideas - also digitally - and to get to know each other better on a personal level. This strengthens cohesion and promotes, especially in large organizations, the exchange between different teams and departments.
Stress relief during the break
Ideally, the conference break combines a cognitive and thematic time-out with a relaxing activity. During the inclusion of a relaxed breakout, the participants can best try something new and get to know each other in new ways. In this way, networking and relaxation can be combined.
Creating added value through active break design
Ultimately, the participants should also gain added value for themselves through the active organization of breaks. By offering them additional, new input, they can use their break not only as a break, but also to learn something new in a relaxed manner. 
The organization of the pause or active breakout
As already mentioned, the breaks should be organized in such a way that as many participants as possible could be interested in them. It should therefore be interesting and relevant for everyone, offer something new and at the same time be as suitable for the masses as possible. Our ultimate suggestion follows below (spoiler: it has something to do with chocolate ;-) ). For particularly large (digital) meetings or conferences, you could consider offering different break formats. In this way, participants can choose between different break activities. Depending on the type of break activity you choose, be sure to allow enough time for pre-registration. Are you planning your event as a hybrid event? Here we have put together some tips for planning hybrid events for you .
The right timing: set the time frame
Next, you should determine a suitable time frame for your active conference break. It sounds simple, but there are a few points to consider. When is a longer break suitable? When are breaks for breakfast or lunch planned? How much time should there be between breaks? And for on-site events: how far apart are the rooms? If the active break is at the end of the day, you should bear in mind that some participants may want to return to their families afterwards. At on-site events, the most interesting event highlights should be set in such a way that parents can also experience them. You can take advantage of this at digital events: if you offer achocolate tasting at the end of the day, for example, the whole family can take part. So you also have a great event highlight for parents, who will certainly be happy about it. The time frame for the conference break itself is also important. Many creative breakouts or conference breaks last between 30 and 60 minutes. Make sure that the break is not too long, as there should be enough time for so-called “bio breaks” before and after the active part.
Creative & chocolaty idea for the break design
From our point of view, there is of course only one idea for the perfect conference break: a chocolate tasting! Whether on site or as a digital event , whether in a large circle or in an intimate round: a chocolate tasting is always a good idea! With our chocolate tastings, you combine everything you need for a successful break. The tasting is inclusive (also for parents, people of other religions, anti-alcoholics and many more). Because a tasting – whether with chocolate or other foods – appeals to all the senses, it is an ideal counterpoint to the otherwise rather top-heavy and possibly dry topics. It's an innovative idea, because very few people have already done a chocolate tasting. And accordingly, it is also an enriching and educational break for most people, as they get to know completely new facets of their favorite candy.
Makes you want to more
You put a lot of effort and thought into the perfect break design. So let the participants know too! We at Theyo already have breaks for SAP, McKinsey, Google, Roche and many more. organized. We know from the event planners that many participants explicitly stated that they had been looking forward to the chocolate tasting for a long time. Even at sales events, the number of participants was often much higher than at "more usual" breaks. Whether chocolate tasting or another innovative format! Make sure the participants know about it in advance. This will definitely reduce your "no-show rate" and increase anticipation! So nothing stands in the way of a successful break and, above all, a successful overall event. I wish you success!
Would you like to learn more about our chocolate tasting for your breaks? Here you can find more information about our company offer !
