Retreats – How to Energize Your Team
“It feels like we have lived a century in the past year,” writes historian Heather Cox Richardson in a recent Facebook post. This spot-on analysis rings true for us! We are planning a company retreat to rest, reconnect and re-imagine the future, and hope you will, too! A retreat can be the magic ingredient to give your team spark it may need. Here are the who, what, why, when, where, and how to get everyone’s energy and creativity flowing.
Who
Your employees, of course! Let’s admit it, it’s been a challenging year for most people, both personally and professionally. Whether your company has 10 people or 100, your team needs an opportunity to relax and revitalize!
What
If we had a nickel for each time we’ve heard someone say, “If I never have to do another Zoom call, it will be too soon,” we’d be rich! In-person gatherings are substantially different from virtual ones in feel and productivity – turning your next meeting into a retreat adds additional opportunities for connection and wellness. As President Biden said on June 16, 2021, “there is no substitute for…a face-to-face dialogue between leaders. None.”
Why
After a year battling the pandemic, adjusting to a new way of life, and persevering in professional lives (whether that meant showing up day-after-day in-person as essential workers or via zoom by those lucky enough to be able to work from home), savvy leaders are thanking and rewarding their employees for their work and dedication. One of the best ways to do this is through an in-person company retreat. Employees will feel recognized and rewarded for their efforts.
When
We’d recommend holding a retreat as soon as possible to get everyone reconnected and energized! Moving forward, ongoing quarterly or annual retreats will be a great way to keep your staff connected, regardless of their daily work locations.
Where - a Featured Venue
A recent survey of meeting planners suggests that attendees desire meetings with the following elements:
· Escape Destination/Retreat
· Nature/Outside Elements (aka Greenspace)
· Hands-on Learning
· Small Group
· Local/Unique Food
· Wellness/Self-care Elements
· Incorporation of 5 Senses
Greek Peak Mountain Resort/Hope Lake Lodge in Cortland, NY is one location that combines many of these desirable elements! “Greenspace meetings include limited time inside and the majority of the time outside in unique nature-based settings for brainstorming plus hiking, zip lining and aerial challenge ropes sessions.” says Drew Broderick, VP Sales & Marketing. “We will connect you with team building experts on strategic planning and reuniting teams. Enjoy cozy Adirondack style lodging. Thank your staff with a relaxing afternoon at Waterfalls Spa.” Outdoor meeting spaces are also available!
How to Maximize Retreat Results
Each retreat should be customized to reflect the values of the company and the needs and preferences of its staff. Post-COVID, the number one goal will likely be re-connection followed closely by gratitude for your employees’ contributions. Here’s a menu of items to consider including in your company retreat:
1. Team Building Activities & FUN!! These can take the form of outdoor activities such as the ones offered at Greek Peak, geocaching, hiking, orienteering, sailing, kayak races, or indoor activities such as dance parties and cooking classes.
2. Wellness experiences – Experiences such as yoga, meditation classes, spa treatments, or Forest Bathing can increase well-being. Having a menu of items allows for individuals to customize their experience.
3. Experiential learning activity – A wine tasting and vineyard tour, bread baking lesson, mixology lesson, or floral arranging session can provide an opportunity to tap into one’s create side.
4. Storytelling activity – Gather around a campfire or fire pit to share wins, challenges, and learnings from last year.
5. State of the Company – Recognize your employees’ contributions and share the vision for the company for the next year! Get your employees’ buy-in and motivate them to move forward to achieve a shared goal.
6. Meals – Consider small group meals to provide opportunities to continue informal storytelling and connecting.
7. Meaningful gift – Make the experience notable by giving attendees a meaningful gift item. Choose an item that connects to the retreat. Sending flowers to your attendees’ homes as a reminder of their floral arranging class, for instance, will make the experience unforgettable.
In the end, make sure the experience is memorable, personal and enjoyable, and your organization will reap the rewards!
We’d love to help set your company up for success with a retreat! Contact us at CRCaporale@leaddogonline.com or 610 690-5184 to schedule your free consultation.