While the saying ‘work hard, play hard’ still holds significance, it’s equally vital to prioritize employee relaxation and work-life balance. One effective way to achieve this is by organizing a company outing, which can have numerous benefits for the organization. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of such a retreat or event and provide insights on organizing a successful event with positive outcomes.
The benefits of a company outing
Organizing a company outing has many advantages. Not only for the organization, but also for the employees. Here are the main advantages:
- Team building: employees get to know each other in an informal and relaxed way. This improves relationships and atmosphere in the workplace.
- Motivation: it increases employee involvement and motivates them to get back to work full of new energy. Read more smart tips in the article about motivating employees.
- Appreciation: A company outing serves as a meaningful gesture to show appreciation for employees’ dedication and hard work.
- Creativity: Exposure to new experiences and environments during events can stimulate creativity among employees, encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
- Reduce stress: Stepping away from the office environment allows employees to unwind and detach from daily work pressures, promoting a healthier work-life balance.
The steps for organizing an experience
Plenty of good reasons to organize a team event, but how do you go about it properly? To ensure you get it right, it is important to go through the following steps:
- Determine the purpose: Clearly identify the main objective of the event—whether it’s team building, rewarding employees, celebrating milestones, or fostering camaraderie. Ensure the purpose resonates with employees to enhance engagement.
- Establish the budget: Determine the budget available for the event, taking into account financial considerations and anticipated costs. Align the event planning with the allocated budget to ensure feasibility.
- Select Date and Send Invitations: Choose a suitable date and time for the event and promptly communicate it to employees using ‘save the date’ invitations. Encourage attendees to reserve the date on their calendars.
- Plan activities: Curate activities that align with the event’s purpose and cater to the interests and preferences of participants. Choose engaging and inclusive activities to promote team bonding and enjoyment.
- Choose a location/venue: Select a venue that complements the event’s objectives and logistical needs. Consider factors such as space requirements, amenities, and accessibility for the chosen activities.
- Have a clear agenda: Develop a comprehensive agenda outlining the event schedule, including timings, activities, locations within the venue, and any required supplies. Optionally, maintain an element of surprise to heighten anticipation among participants.
- Arrange transportation: If transportation is needed to and from the event venue, make necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth and convenient experience for attendees.
- Procure supplies: Acquire all essential materials and supplies needed for the event, such as equipment for activities or promotional items like branded T-shirts or goodie bags.
- Post-event evaluation: Following the event, gather feedback from participants to assess the overall experience. Identify successful aspects and areas for improvement to inform future event planning and enhance effectiveness.
Different types of activities
When planning a company outing, choosing the right activities is key to creating a memorable experience. Here’s a list of diverse activities to inspire you:
- Sports activities: Energize your team with sports such as bowling, canoeing, paintball, golf, or a friendly sports tournament. Physical activities are great for team bonding and getting everyone moving.
- Team building challenges: Foster teamwork and problem-solving skills with activities like puzzle-solving, tug-of-war, or an exciting obstacle course.
- Creative workshops: Unleash creativity through art workshops like painting, pottery-making, or culinary classes. These activities encourage innovation and collaboration.
- Cultural excursions: Explore local culture together by visiting museums, attending theatre performances, enjoying concerts, or taking a guided tour of a city’s landmarks.
- Pub quiz: Organize a fun pub quiz featuring customized questions about the company and its employees. It’s a great way to promote camaraderie and friendly competition.
- Casual gathering: Arrange a casual meetup over drinks to toast to teamwork and success in a relaxed setting.
- Community Service: Give back to the community by engaging in activities like cleaning up public spaces or volunteering at retirement homes. It’s a meaningful way to bond while making a positive impact.
Feel free to combine these activities to create a well-rounded outing that caters to diverse interests within your team. Consider whether to organize the activities in-house or outsource them based on your budget and preferences.
Make the outing special and memorable!
To ensure your company outing is truly special and unforgettable, consider the power of small details and delightful surprises. Transform the venue with your company’s colours and branded décor, featuring elements like balloons, customized drinking glasses, or themed chocolates. Enhance the experience with unique giveaways tailored to the outing or consider arranging a special performance to entertain and engage attendees. These thoughtful touches not only create lasting memories but also contribute to reinforcing your company’s identity and values.
Capture the essence of the day by hiring a photographer or videographer to document the event, preserving cherished moments for everyone to revisit and enjoy.
If you’re looking for personalized printed items to complement your outing, we’re here to offer inspiration and assist you in selecting the perfect items that align with your event’s theme and objectives.