The first-ever TEAM Netwalk took place in 2024, a day before the TEAM Annual Conference and it was a fantastic way to start the event! We teamed up with Julia Doherty from Adventure Geek, raising money for SHOUT UK, to give Members and partners the opportunity to swap the boardroom for fresh air, open conversations and wonderful countryside views.
What is Netwalking?
As Julia put it, Netwalking is like netWORKing, but better - it takes conversations outside, removing the formal setting and allowing discussions to flow naturally. There’s real science behind it, too. Walking side by side rather than face to face makes people more open, leading to deeper and more authentic conversations.
The Route: Kenilworth Castle & Alpaca Farm
The 6.5-mile trail started and ended at Kenilworth Castle, just across from Chesford Grange Hotel, where our Conference takes place. The route had beautiful countryside paths and we even passed an alpaca farm along the way! It was purposely chosen to be an easy (and flat!) walk, to encourage relaxed discussions rather than a physical challenge.
More Than Just Business – A focus on Mental Health
One of the biggest takeaways from the Netwalk was that networking isn’t just about business - it’s about people. Getting to know each other in a relaxed setting strengthened relationships beyond just the same old recruitment chat.
In 2024, TEAM put a real focus on the Mental Health and wellbeing of our Members and Partners, launching a series of 10 specialist webinars on Mental Health and Wellbeing. The Netwalk was at the heart of this, it was not only a chance to connect but also an opportunity to raise awareness and support for mental health in our industry. The event was run in support of SHOUT UK, a mental health charity offering free, confidential crisis support via text.
John Docherty, Founder of ATP Technical, shared his experience:
“I enjoy a long walk or run, but it’s always with people I know. The 2024 TEAM conference offered me a new experience; to walk with people I’ve never met before. The route was picturesque and the weather warm, all the ingredients needed to start talking. About anything. I made connections with people on both a personal and professional level which served me well not just for the next two days but for the long term. PLEASE, sign me up for Netwalk 2025!”
Janine Ambrose, Back Office Support Services:
"For me, walking side by side created natural, easy conversations about business, well-being and just being yourself"
By the end of the walk, new connections have been made and everyone felt energised for the Conference ahead. With only 30 spaces available, it was an impactful yet intimate way to start the event.
We are hosting Netwalk #3 at TEAM Conference 2026!
This year taking place on Thursday 4th June - we are following the same route (only shortening it slightly!), with Julia Doherty leading the way.
TEAM Service Provider, Back Office Support Services have kindly sponsored the Netwalk for a second year running, choosing SHOUT UK as their chosen charity, which we are thrilled to be supporting for a second year.
There are only 30 spaces available, so be sure to reserve your space soon!
(You must be attending the TEAM Conference to participate! You can book your Conference ticket HERE.)
Join us for the next TEAM Netwalk in 2026 it’s the perfect way to connect, reset and start Conference in the best way possible!
