The game of chess is experiencing a resurgence, not only among young enthusiasts but also within corporate and coworking environments. Organising chess tournaments in offices or coworking spaces can significantly enhance member experiences, foster community spirit, improve the work atmosphere, and promote mental well-being through engaging strategic gameplay. This article delves into the success of the iSprout Pan India Chess Tournament, held across 14 centres, and features insights from Reecha Saha, the driving force behind the event.

Chess Tournament Across Fourteen Centers and 133 Participants

iSprout, a premier coworking space in Hyderabad, has consistently catered to the diverse needs of growing business enterprises. From freelancers seeking dedicated workstations to established corporations requiring custom-made offices, iSprout stands out as a major player in the coworking sector. Known for its innovative workspace solutions and client-centric plans, iSprout offers well-serviced spaces, trained support staff, and attractive amenities in prime locations, ensuring a superior working environment.

In June 2024, iSprout organised a chess tournament across its various locations with the following goals:

• Promoting Mental Engagement
• Building Community and Connections
• Encouraging Healthy Competition
• Adding Variety to Coworking Activities
• Promoting Relaxation and Stress Relief
• Showcasing the Coworking Space Culture
• Encouraging Participation and Inclusivity

The iSprout Pan India Chess Tournament was conducted across fourteen locations, with 133 participants engaging in the four-day event. The winners were awarded Jade plants, iSprout certificates, and ChessBase India merchandise.

Insights from Reecha Saha – The Driving Force Behind the Event

Monalisa Kayal, a senior HR professional working with a UK-based organisation at one of iSprout’s coworking locations, caught up with Reecha Saha, the Customer Success Manager at iSprout. Monalisa, a close follower of the work done by ChessBase India, provided valuable input and suggested sharing ChessBase India merchandise with the winners to encourage them to play more.

Monalisa: Tell us about yourself and your roles and responsibilities at iSprout.

Reecha: My name is Reecha Saha, and I am the Customer Success Manager at iSprout. My primary objective is to ensure our clients receive the highest support and value from iSprout. I work closely with clients to help them achieve success. With nine years of extensive hospitality industry expertise, I specialise in delivering exceptional guest experiences. I am deeply committed to building strong, long-lasting relationships with our clients and am passionate about helping them leverage their products and services to their fullest potential.

Monalisa: Was organising the tournament easy or difficult? What is your key takeaway from the experience?

Reecha: Organising a tournament can be both challenging and rewarding. The difficulty often depends on factors such as the tournament’s scale, the number of participants, the logistics involved, and ensuring smooth execution. Here at iSprout, we had lots of support from every individual.

Monalisa: How did you find the players responding to the event? Can we expect more such tournaments in the future?

Reecha: The players’ response to the tournament was tremendously positive. We had around 133 participants across Pan India iSprout centres. Given the sustained interest and organisational capability, it’s reasonable to expect more tournaments in the future. Each event builds on the experience gained, aiming to offer participants even better opportunities and experiences.

Key Takeaways from the iSprout Chess Tournament

1. Enhanced Client Relationships:

• Strengthened Bonds: Personal interactions and shared experiences can deepen relationships, fostering a sense of loyalty.
• Increased Trust: Providing a well-organised, enjoyable event showcases the commitment to clients’ satisfaction and engagement.

2. Networking Opportunities:

• Client Networking: Clients can meet and interact with each other, potentially leading to new business opportunities and partnerships.
• Internal Networking: The team can also network with clients, gaining deeper insights into their needs and preferences.

3. Client Engagement and Loyalty:

• Client Retention: Engaging clients through unique events helps retain them by creating memorable experiences.
• Feedback and Insights: Interacting with clients in a relaxed setting can provide valuable feedback on our services.

4. Skills Development and Team Building:

• Analytical Skills: Chess enhances strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, benefiting clients professionally.
• Team Spirit: Promoting a sense of community and teamwork among clients and within the organisation.

5. Differentiation from Competitors:

• Unique Offering: Hosting a chess tournament sets iSprout apart from competitors who may not offer similar client engagement activities.
• Value Addition: Demonstrates added value beyond the core services, enhancing overall client satisfaction.

6. Fun and Entertainment:

• Enjoyable Experience: Provides clients with a fun and intellectually stimulating activity, making their association with the company more enjoyable.
• Stress Relief: Offers a break from the regular work routine, helping clients relax and recharge.

7. Promotion of Fair Play and Ethics:

• Ethical Values: Promotes the importance of fair play and integrity, aligning with positive corporate values.
• Sportsmanship: Encourages a spirit of sportsmanship and healthy competition among clients.

Future Prospects and Impact on Coworking Culture

The success of the iSprout Pan India Chess Tournament underscores the potential of incorporating such events into coworking and corporate environments. The positive response and active participation highlight the demand for activities beyond traditional work routines. As coworking spaces continue to evolve, incorporating recreational and intellectually stimulating activities like chess tournaments can significantly enhance member satisfaction and retention.

The Broader Impact on Mental Well-being and Community Building

Chess is a strategy game and a tool for mental engagement and stress relief. In the fast-paced corporate world, providing employees and members with opportunities to unwind and engage in mentally stimulating activities can improve mental well-being and productivity. The iSprout tournament exemplifies how coworking spaces can become more than just places to work—they can transform into vibrant communities where members connect, collaborate, and grow together.

Final Words

The iSprout Pan India Chess Tournament is a testament to iSprout’s innovative and client-centric approach to enhancing the coworking experience. By organising such events, iSprout has fostered community, promoted mental well-being, and strengthened client relationships.

As coworking spaces continue to gain popularity, integrating similar activities can set them apart from competitors, offering unique value and a more enriching experience for members. The tournament’s success also paves the way for future events, contributing to the overall growth and development of the coworking culture in India.