How to Throw a Company Retreat That Everyone Will Rave About

It goes without saying that everyone needs a break once in a while. This is why, as an employer, you should invest in regular company retreats to, not only let your employees recharge their batteries, but to show them how much they mean to you.

The corporate world is changing, and company retreats don’t have to be the same stuffy team building activities over and over again. Instead, you should feel free to get creative with the activities you plan; after all, what employee would feel upset over a fun day outside of the office?

Explore a new place with a scavenger hunt

If you are going to a completely new place for your retreat, a good way to get everyone acclimated to the area is to set up a scavenger hunt. These don’t have to be complex or hard, and you probably want to avoid making them too frustrating to solve.

A simple game where your employees search for small items can do the trick. For some extra team building, form groups of people who don’t tend to work with each other all that often, so they can build rapport.

Take advantage of summer

If you live near the water, take advantage of the warm summer days and incorporate some water sports into your retreat. You don’t have to waterski or do anything crazy like pair up in jet skis (although some companies may find that fun).

Instead, you can keep things chill by parasailing in West Palm Beach, for example. Just plan for a meal or a happy hour after the main event, and everyone will be content and happy.

Collect all technology at the door

There are bound to be some workaholics in your group, but the whole point of an employee retreat is to disconnect from work. The best way to do so is by collecting all cell phones and laptops at the door, letting your clients know that the entire office will be away and unable to respond to correspondence.

When you nip all the digital temptations in the bud, everyone will be more likely to enjoy themselves.

A wine and beer pairing/tasting

Wine or beer tasting can be a great idea in an alcohol-friendly office space, and if everyone is personally comfortable with drinking. You can head to a brewery or a nearby winery and do a tasting, along with some food pairings for a fun treat on a Friday.

Just make sure that there are a few non-alcoholic options available, and that you have sorted out transportation ahead of time in the form of taxis, Ubers, or a shuttle.

Volunteer at a cause close to your heart

If you want to give back during your retreat, choose a non-profit in your area. You can send out a company-wide vote on what organizations to spend time with, then plan the day around how they would like for you to help. Good options include a pet shelter, a local food pantry/kitchen, Habitat for Humanity, or a children’s hospital.

End the day with free swag.

Everyone likes goodie bags, especially when they’re full of items that are actually useful. Take this time to give out free swag that advertises your company, such as promotional wall calendars, t-shirts, jackets, can koozies, pens, backpacks, portfolios, and phone cases.

Plus, everyone will have something to take home with them to remind them of the fun they had on the retreat. With these ideas in mind, you’ll be set to throw a company retreat that everyone will rave about. So get out there, and remember to have fun!