5 Easy Ways to Make Sure You Have a Safe Company Retreat During Covid 19
Company retreats have for a long time played an essential role in employee alignment, future planning, and team bonding. Today, the pandemic has placed some challenges on the annual tradition of the company retreat that rightfully has led many to consider their team events more thoughtfully. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Here are 5 easy ways to host a company retreat successfully during the lingering pandemic:
1.) Consider the cleaning procedures of your venue
Not all hospitality cleaning procedures are the same. When choosing a retreat location, consider more stringent procedures that would make sure you are doing everything you can to protect your employees and make them feel comfortable. Ask the venue specifics about their cleaning and decontamination procedures in the wake of Covid-19 and share these openly with employees as you relay your retreat details.
2.) Maximize outdoor space
When choosing a location for your retreat, be sure to choose one that allows for ample outdoor space. From decks to tented event space to firepit sessions, there are ample opportunities for meeting and connecting outdoors. Many locations even have patio heaters for the colder months. In addition to providing for extra precaution, outdoor space centered in nature can itself be a stress reliever for busy employees who have been hunkering down throughout the pandemic.
3.) Provide masks and hand sanitizer
It’s traditional to provide your employees with an annual company retreat swag bag. However, in the era of the pandemic, it’s time to think beyond matching T-shirts with the company logo. You should also provide employees with hand sanitizer and disposable masks for their comfort and protection throughout their time at the retreat venue. This shows employees that you are planning mindfully for their safety and comfort.
4.) Plan games and meetings prioritizing minimal contact
Instead of close-contact activities, plan for events that allow for more space between individuals. This may mean creating more distance between chairs at meetings or providing individualized meals instead of open-air catering. It can also mean choosing a place with the option for activities that are low contact or individualized like using a putting green or kayaking instead of hosting a team sport like ultimate frisbee or volleyball.
5.) Offer voluntary virtual participation
It’s important to provide employees with the opportunity to take part in a company retreat and experience the benefits that come with it. However, not all employees will be comfortable with an in-person retreat, and that’s okay. Luckily, modern technology has lent itself to the accessibility of hybrid models. Allow employees the option to participate from afar with streaming meetings and swag bags sent to their homes. Perhaps even work a virtual trivia game into the overall retreat schedule.
Precautions at the Retreat at Crystal Creek
Whatever your leadership and team is most comfortable with, there are many options to host a company retreat during the Covid-19 pandemic. To learn more about the precautions we’re able to provide for your team at the Retreat at Crystal Creek, contact us.