Checking phone or email

Constantly buzzing phones can be a major source of distraction to participants. Ask people to put their phones on silent and avoid checking their messages and email during the workshop.

However, keep in mind that this might not always be possible. Some participants might still have to be available to other team members who aren’t at the workshop. So, unless the distraction is huge and frequent, be mindful of this and let it slide.

You may reiterate your “no-phones” request if any major disruption continues. And if, despite your request, some attendees fail to comply, you may politely ask them to take their conversation outside and return when they are done.