The corporate retreat is an essential getaway for staff members and management. It can be difficult these days due to remote working situations that often leave employees never seeing one another outside their office space unless there's a specific reason why they need too (e-g: annual review). Purposeful communication by getting together away from all distractions allows everyone to have a better understanding about what makes each individual tick; you know…bonding!
Imagine a place where you can be yourself, away from the stresses of your everyday life. That's what Corporate Retreats are all about! A corporate retreat is an opportunity for employers and employees alike to relax but also discuss important issues in depth with one another while enjoying each other’s company over food or drink at an offsite location. This type of getaway helps bring ideas into focus by opening participants' minds so they're able brainstorm newer strategies on how best move forward towards achieving those goals that have been set forth within their company mission statement.
Corporate retreats need to appeal to individuals who respond to stimuli differently. Activities should be planned according to the objectives of the retreat (to bond, plan for the year ahead, brainstorm new projects, etc.), and a suitable venue should be used that can accommodate the types of activities you want to host.
For example, there are many retreats that focus on team building through physical activities and trust exercises. Other retreats can be held at a hotel with conference rooms as well as social venues like a bar or restaurant.
It is important to acknowledge the comfort levels of staff so that they are challenged but not made to feel isolated if they cannot participate. Consider if an activity may be too strenuous, touches on an employee's past trauma, or doesn't appeal to someone's interests at all to the point that they cannot engage.
A practical factor to keep in mind when planning a corporate retreat is the cost. Try to compare the package prices of a dedicated corporate retreat venue to another desirable venue. Dedicated corporate retreat venues may include activities in their packages, while other venues only offer the use of their space. You will have to organize activities (and any relevant resources) yourself.
There should also be a meeting for the entire group so that the company's broader goals can be discussed.
Being in nature is a shift from the corporate environment and allows coworkers to chat while exploring a new landscape.
Organize staff members into teams that don't necessarily reflect their work teams and create a tournament. Teams should try to win the most points by completing physical and/or mental challenges. This will help coworkers bond.
Some cities have dedicated bike lanes that would accommodate a tour by bike. These cities are likely to have bike rental facilities and suggested routes.
Each department should have time alone to discuss their goals and ideas.
Department heads or team leaders can be asked to prepare a short talk relevant to the goals of your retreat. Examples include how to avoid burnout, ways to be more efficient during a slump, and how to communicate more effectively.
Invite individuals to host an activity that they are passionate about. This will allow team members to share their interests and hobbies while keeping everyone engaged. Examples include Dungeons & Dragons, how to cook a dish, a sport that is less well-known, and yoga.
Scavenger hunts force people to think creatively and work as a team. If your venue is close to an escape room, this is also a good challenge.
Branded items like temporary tattoos, t-shirts, hats, tote bags, and water bottles make retreats exciting and create an informal uniform for the trip. Your team will remember the retreat whenever they wear or use the branded merchandise.
You should try to get as much feedback from employees as possible so that you can plan an even better retreat for the following year. Having feedback sessions at the end of the week may result in many people forgetting specific elements of activities. By providing feedback each day, the memories are fresh, and any concerns about how the retreat is going can be addressed immediately.
After an activity and after the retreat is over, staff should be asked for their feedback.This information can help with planning your next retreat so that it is most effective and enjoyable. Factors that can be surveyed include how accessible the venue was, how stimulating each activity was, whether staff members enjoyed themselves, if any positive changes took place amongst coworkers, etc.
(Danielle and Pam’s input on this topic)
We have attended some of the most wonderful retreats over the years, and one of our favorite things to do is to plan and execute a retreat for a wide variety of teams. We have done half day staff retreats, 2-day location retreats and many events in between. Many of the ideas listed above have been implemented. Swag??? We love swag and take great pride in the creative ways we show employees how they are valued. From all work retreats to emotional let’s get to the heart of the matter retreats, we have strategies and activities for it all. Some of the most profound growth moments of Pam’s career…those massive AHA moments came from a retreat. Let’s talk about how this might benefit you and your company. Contact DnP Solutions today at danielle@dnpsolutionsllc.com!
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