Whether you’re hosting a company retreat or simply planning to go out for fun with your colleagues, you should do a few essential things beforehand.
Include Your Team in The Planning
Organizing a corporate retreat can be difficult. However, if you plan it properly, it can be a rewarding experience. It helps staff bond and can be a great way to show employees appreciation. It can also help your business attract the best talent. The first thing you’ll need to do is decide on the retreat’s goal. The goal could be as simple as improving teamwork or as complex as launching a new employee engagement program.
The next step is to decide on the agenda. You’ll need to decide who will attend the retreat and what activities will be held. The activities should relate to the goal of the retreat. For example, you may want to invite the entire team, or you may limit your group to the people most critical to the retreat’s success.
Pick A Venue with Plenty of Activities.
Choosing the right venue for a corporate retreat can make or break the retreat. This is not just about location; it also involves the type of space and available amenities. With the right tools and resources, planning your retreat can be a smooth and fun experience. You want to pick a venue that will provide employees with plenty of activities. Whether it’s a day at the local or national park or a stay in a resort, choosing a location with plenty of activities can help your employees connect. You may want to check Beavers Bend Getaways for more helpful information on how to ensure the success of your retreat. The activities on your agenda for the retreat should relate to the core purpose of the event. For example, if the goal is to brainstorm, it might be better to hold brainstorming sessions in the morning. Employees will be more apt to explore the local area during their free time.
You should also consider your budget when planning your retreat. You will want to have enough parking spaces for all your employees. Also, remember that certain locations have high traffic and parking issues.
Pack The Right Clothes
Whether you’re going on a company off-site, taking a vacation with your team, or just a solo trip, there are some items to pack to have the best experience. A checklist will help you plan what to pack so you can leave the house on time and within budget. A good rule of thumb for a work retreat is to wear clothing that looks professional and comfortable. A simple polo shirt is a good choice, as is a pair of casual chinos. For evenings, you may want to dress up in heels.
Hire A Skilled Facilitator
Choosing a skilled facilitator is crucial to a successful corporate retreat. A good facilitator helps you steer your group through the decision-making process and keeps your team engaged. A good facilitator also helps you avoid groupthink and distractions. Before hiring a facilitator, ensure you have a clear purpose for your retreat. It can develop a new corporate direction, brainstorm ideas for problem-solving, or address concerns among your coworkers. You should also consider your budget and the number of employees attending. If you are planning a retreat for 20+ people, hiring an outside facilitator may be worth it.
The best facilitators take the time to glean insights from previous clients and conduct pre-retreat surveys. They also review marketing collateral, metrics, and key aspects of an organization’s culture. These insights help them identify the key issues and develop a solid strategic plan.