Creating a Balanced Space with Google Developers Group
Not all events, meetups, and gatherings are like this, and I genuinely believe it’s important for people and organizations to deliver presentations that truly wow an audience.
I’ve watched several that left me feeling inspired.
My intent with this video is to playfully make a point.
I’ve also been to many events and meetups where it was clear the only thing they wanted us to do was pay attention to what they were saying.
Sometimes they provided a meal, which was usually blahzay-blah and overpriced.
There was usually a brief time at the beginning of events to network, but by then I was just getting there, it was loud, and it often felt chaotic.
Typically, the meetups I attended, especially those hosted by large companies, left me and any colleagues I brought with a sense of surface-level engagement.
This is why Creating a Balanced Space exists, to show that gatherings, events, and meetings in a more balanced light.
Which is why I was so excited when life gave me the opportunity to bring this experience to Google Developer Group.
This article shares the process and impact of Creating a Balanced Space experience to show how gatherings can cultivate meaningful connection.
Prep Meeting
The first step was meeting with the team to talk through what they wanted their group to experience.
Tyler C de Laguna is the Chapter Head, and it was fun to sit down with him and his team to explore possibilities.
One of the main topics we discussed was the challenges attendees might face.
Large groups can feel intimidating. People often struggle to connect because of nerves, uncertainty, or not knowing how to start a conversation.
We explored ways to help the audience break out of these challenges and genuinely connect with each other.
Our goal was to create a moment where attendees could relax, open up, and meet peers they had not met before.
What Happened During the Experience
During the experience, I invited everyone into small groups and asked two simple questions:
How frustrating has the job market been? How are you holding up?
The goal was for people to answer honestly and then connect with peers they had not met yet.
At first everyone looked perplexed. Their faces said:
Are we really going to pause in the middle of the presentation line up to stretch, stand, get a cup of water, and talk with each other?
As the groups started talking, something powerful happened.
People shared their struggles, admitted they felt overwhelmed, and discovered others were going through the same uncertainties.
In some groups, attendees offered support to each other.
I heard one person say, “It feels good to know I am not alone.”
Come on, this is what it’s about, right?
The room felt lighter, and connection began to take hold.
The Result
After the experience, something beautiful happened after the presentation.
People approached others with ease instead of hesitation. They were more confident starting conversations.
The presenters had their moment to shine, but so did the audience.
The purpose of Creating a Balanced Space is to create moments where people can pause, connect with others, and feel seen and supported in demanding industries.
If this resonates, reach out and let’s create an experience for your team, community, or audience.