The benefits of corporate away days

There are many different benefits of corporate away days.

Brings people together

The way we work has changed. Gone are the days when colleagues would spend five days a week sitting side by side in an office. With more companies adopting hybrid working models following the pandemic, teams have a lot less face-to-face interaction. Those moments where they are able to come together are so valuable. Your next away day may even be the first time people have seen each other in person since the pandemic began, making it all the more special.

Improves communication

Corporate away days give your team a chance to switch off from emails and paperwork, and frees them up to engage in face-to-face conversations with colleagues they haven’t met before, don’t know so well, or simply haven't seen in a long time. When your team members are able to connect with each other, it builds a sense of camaraderie, and they will be better motivated to take positive actions that benefit the business.

Encourages bonding

You may be bringing people from different departments or locations together for the first time. Not only do they get to work together in person, but they also get to spend a whole day, or even a few days together. This way they get to know each other on a deeper level, as they share personal experiences over dinner or while sitting around the fire with a glass of whisky or sparkling elderflower. And this helps them to forge stronger working relationships.

Form of stress release

The wellbeing of your employees should be a top priority in any business. Your people are your greatest asset. And giving them a chance to escape the stresses of everyday work can be invaluable. They will come away feeling refreshed and energised, which will benefit both them personally and your organisation.

Boosts morale

Sometimes all it takes is a few days out of the office and some focused time together to boost team morale. A shared experience, creating lasting memories.

Helps people to think differently

Interacting with colleagues in a completely different environment often spurs new and unique ideas. Choose a venue where you will have exclusive use of the space, and your team will have freedom to think creatively, with no distractions.

Improves culture

Everyone wants to work for a company that invests in their professional and personal development. Corporate away days allow you to create a culture you’re proud of. It can also help attract people to your company.

How to make your corporate away day a success

Get the location right  

Choose a neutral territory, free from distractions. Somewhere inspirational will help participants to focus and plan.

Set the aims

The goals of your away day should be clear to all participants. Is it about strategy or celebrating? Perhaps it's both! If everyone knows what you’re trying to achieve, they can take part as effectively as possible.

Be adventurous

Very few corporate away days are all work and no play. So be sure to sprinkle games and activities throughout the event. A bit of friendly competition is healthy. Cricket, axe throwing, a hike in nature… the options are endless. Or, opt for something that encourages staff to relax and unwind, like whisky tasting, an outdoor cinema, or sharing stories around a bonfire.

Allow for unstructured time

It’s important for your team to have some discretionary time too, especially if you’re away for a couple of days. The space to take a moment to themselves, to reflect or contemplate something happening in their lives, can be transformative for your team members. 

Assign actions before you leave

Don’t let all that hard work be forgotten. Make sure everyone knows what they need to do when back in the office.