Away days are often maligned. Awkward ice breakers, forced fun, a 50 minute presentation from the boss on the new strategy…. it’s easy to see why the concept is often met with an eye roll.
But if this is what you’re doing, you’re doing it wrong.
An away day should be an opportunity to generate new ideas and discussions – to think and talk about work but not actually DO work. Spending focused time with colleagues, encouraging everyone to work together on answers to big questions, has the potential to be transformative.
Done well, an away day builds bonds within a team, and can generate new and relevant insights to take back to the day job.
Here are my top tips for making your team away day effective, regardless of budget.
1) Have clear objectives
2) Choose your facilitator wisely
3) Plan the agenda around energy levels
4) Make sure it's a conversation
5) Provide new information
6) Create a safe environment
7) Don't neglect the follow up
If you'd like more information on these, get my FREE guide to planning an away day.
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