Planing the perfect company retreat can be a time consuming process if you don’t know where to start. Luckily, we’ve got you covered and have created a checklist on how to make the most out of your team away day. Team off sites are a great way to boost morale, get everyone working together, and reinforce your team’s bond. So where do you start when it comes to planning one?

Company Retreat Planning Checklist

Determine the Objectives

First things first: you need to define the goals and objectives of the retreat. Are you looking to foster team building, boost morale, or enhance creativity and innovation? Identifying the purpose of your team offsite will help guide your planning process.

Find the Right Location

Choose a destination that aligns with your objectives and offers the necessary facilities and amenities. You’ll need to consider different things like proximity to your office, accessibility, accommodation options, and extra activities. Now’s the time to decide if you want it to be international, a quick trip away, or even just a day event.

Set a Budget

You’ll need to determine a budget that will include everything from accommodation to food, transportation, activities, and everything in between. Make sure the budget is realistic so you’re not surprised if you end up going over it.

Form a Planning Committee

Get a team together who can assist in organising the retreat. This is a great way to delegate responsibilities amongst different members of your company.

Plan the Schedule

Create a schedule that balances both work-related sessions and team building activities. You’ll also want to sprinkle in some time to relax and hang out. Share an itinerary with the team so they know what to expect!

Organise Accommodation and Transportation

Find accommodations that can fit everyone and are comfortable. You’ll want to consider the types of rooms a place has, what kind of amenities they offer, and if you can host the rest of your retreat in the same place, which is a lot easier than moving around. Coordinate transportation whether it involves renting cars, booking flights, or arranging shuttles.

Incorporate Team Building Activities

Start the day off with an ice breaker and make sure to weave in team building activities throughout the day. It’s a great way to encourage communication and build trust. Try to include a mix of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to problem-solving challenges,. sports activities, or hackathons.

Plan Meals and Dietary Restrictions

Make sure you’ve asked everyone if they have any allergies or dietary restrictions and note these down. Decide how you’re going to sort food during your retreat. You can break your team into groups and have them prepare meals, order in, or hire a caterer or chef.

Include Downtime

You don’t want the entire retreat to be go, go, go. Instead, while planning the perfect company retreat, include some downtime. A lot of venues will offer wellness activities like yoga or even spa treatments. You could also organise nature walks or go and explore the area you’re staying in.

Communicate with the Team

Throughout the planning process it’s important to communicate with your entire team. Keep them updated on where the event will be, what the schedule will look like, and any pre-retreat preparations.

Evaluate and Gather Feedback

After the retreat has taken place, it’s important to gather feedback so you can see if the event was successful. It’s also a great way to identify any areas for improvement for the next one!