Expert strategies to maximize hackathon participation
The most successful corporate hackathons reach far beyond the engineering department. Leading organizers have developed specific strategies to create truly inclusive events that engage employees across the organization. Here's their expert advice on making hackathons accessible and appealing to everyone.
Executive support is key to hackathon success. To help secure their buy-in, Janet advises presenting leadership with a comprehensive plan.
"It's about presenting leadership with a fully formed idea that includes how it's going to go and what could potentially happen. Also, put the expectation of what time is required from them because they are very busy and in demand."
Trey shared that it’s also important to clearly highlight the various ways hackathons will benefit the organization.
“When executives feel like we're iceland telegram screening not just checking the box, we're not just hosting something to try and innovate because we have to. When you make it about the company culture, there's more buy-in,” said Trey.
Once execs are on board, it’ll make it easier to show people that they can participate. Tony shared how his team does this at JLL.
"We send out a calendar hold from the CEO or the CTO,” said Tony. “So it almost gives the participants permission to push back on their day-to-day work because they're like, 'Hey, well, the CTO just sent me an invite blocking my calendar out for the entire week. So I definitely have time for this.’ It's something we know is top of mind for a lot of the participants."