Employees who strive and work hard in an organization must have opportunities to rejuvenate and de-stress. It particularly applies to those team members doing challenging tasks where the level of difficulty is higher. Well-planned team building retreats offer an opportunity to learn, improve problem-solving skills, as well as time to refresh and take a break from work-related stress. Let’s keep reading to learn more.
First learn about the company’s work culture. Is hosting training in forums the norm or something new for the organization? If it’s not a norm, talk to your team manager to get that idea approved. In simple words, you should prepare the ground by explaining the purpose of the withdrawal, the expenses and, of course, the benefits.
Corporate travel doesn’t have to be expensive all the time. So, will the company’s budget allow organizing such events, no matter how minor the expenses? Whether you have a single day retreat or a multi-day trip depends on the funds of the company. The goal is to get away from the tedium of files, work, goals, and client calls. An enjoyable and interactive learning session organized in a serene environment will do everyone good. Keep the cost of transportation, lodging and food under control. This is because you need to consider the fees of a trained facilitator for business outings to be successful.
Now, we come to the most crucial aspect of withdrawals. He is planning the agenda. The agenda should include learning activities, information sharing items, and fun-filled games. It must be the perfect combination of entertainment and learning. The agenda should include issues that are affecting the growth of the company. Such matters must be discussed first.
For a one-day event, time should be specified for discussing work-related concerns, discussions or brainstorming sessions, and the rest for fun and entertainment activities. For a two-day trip, the facilitator should suggest a special topic. This topic should be discussed during half the day, and the rest of the time should be reserved for experimental exercises. In this process, don’t forget to allocate enough time for food and drinks. The second day should be reserved for fun-filled games. There should be ample opportunity to get out and inhale clean, fresh hair. It will de-stress the tired nerves of hard-working employees. The best way is to go for a walk and be surrounded by nature. It can be a park full of green plants and colorful flowers, or a walk by a lake. For this, you need to select a place rich in scenic beauty.
Team building retreats are successful if they are not over scheduled. Otherwise, it will result in stress. During discussion sessions, make sure all team members can speak. Those who are naturally shy or introverted should be encouraged to communicate. This is where the role of the facilitator comes into the picture.
Finally, when all the team building activities and exercises have finished, it is necessary to receive feedback from the participants. Based on the feedback, you will be able to improve your next corporate outing. And don’t include sensitive topics on such trips. Keep them aside to discuss when you return to work.