When it comes time to plan your next big corporate retreat for your team, you need to think about how you’re going to create something special. Essentially, you can either go big or stay home. Employees have worked hard through the year to bring you the success and profits that allow you to show your gratitude. The best way to do this is by working with a top corporate retreat planning service. Here are some tips on finding the best company for the job.
What To Look For In The Best Corporate Retreat Planners
1) A range of locations across the country
Some companies may focus purely on retreats within their region, and that’s fine. It may mean they have more detailed knowledge about some of the exciting opportunities on offer within a specified area or city. They may have strong relationships with a handful of venues. However, when you have a company that works country-wide, you can go almost anywhere you can think of. You aren’t left choosing between a retreat on the East Coast or heading all the way over to the West Coast. There could be options in the Midwest that are more accessible for your team or something down south that offers a different type of retreat.
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2) A range of location types
This idea of variety in locations across the country also means a selection of location types. The United States has some of the most diverse and extreme landscapes, and it’s exciting to be able to experience that as a team. The best retreat planners will help you choose a break by location type so you can create the right vibe. This could be a chance for small-town firms to head into a big city or for those in city headquarters to get some time out in the mountains, by a relaxing lake, or maybe even out in the desert.
3) Plenty of team building activities to add to your itinerary
The next thing you need is a long list of potential activities for your corporate retreat. These can vary from more low-key social events, where employees let their hair down for a while, to bigger adventures and team-building opportunities. You need a balance between bonding experiences, competitive activities, and relaxing breaks. Top corporate retreat planners understand this and will come up with a range of options in your chosen area. This can include everything from tours and hikes in the local landscape to cultural experiences, scavenger hunts, and meditation classes. Together, you can build the ideal plan.
4) Help with corporate event planning
At some point in your corporate retreat, you might want to treat the team to some sort of company event. This could be a high-end dinner with some guest speakers and a presentation on their successes. It could be a more casual party with drinks and karaoke to continue that theme of social bonding and team building. Or, you could have an awards ceremony to give thanks to each member for their efforts. Many top retreat organizers can help make this possible by working with venues and hiring equipment to help the event run smoothly.
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5) Help with transportation
Another concern with these extravagant corporate retreats in other states is transportation. How is the team expected to get to the location? Events planned and booked by your own corporate team can fall apart at this point, especially if you expect employees to drive long distances to remote locations. Corporate planners can help you book flights out to your chosen location and even arrange for shuttle services between the airport and accommodation. This sort of professionalism and cohesion should get everyone to the retreat with as little stress as possible.
6) Easy-to-use online services
Finding the best corporate retreat planner online isn’t just about finding people with the right knowledge and connections. There’s also the ability to use their service as efficiently as possible. We don’t want to have to go into someone else’s office to go through brochures and fill out paperwork. That’s why brick-and-mortar travel agencies aren’t as big a thing as they once were. You need an easy-to-use online portal where you can see all your options, make selections, and create an easy-to-follow plan for your team.
7) Friendly customer service from start to finish
Another important factor is customer service. How much is your corporate retreat planner prepared to do to help you, and how much support can they offer throughout the experience? Are they easy to contact when you have questions about the retreat or need to amend your plans? Do they have the skills and patience to create something that fits your company’s needs rather than meeting their own quota? Are they going to have someone there in person to greet you at the retreat and help take care of things?
8) A clear contract of expectations and terms
Finally, you need a company that’s able to offer a full contract and not just some verbal agreement. You want to be sure that everything is in writing so you can get the support you need if something changes or goes wrong. Make sure everything is listed so there’s no confusion – from the accommodation to the activities on the itinerary – and everyone is on the same page. Sign off on all the terms and conditions so everyone knows their responsibilities for providing services, dealing with payments, and any other factors you need to consider.
Get The Corporate Retreat Your Team Deserves
The end goal here is to create an experience your team will love and remember for years. It can be tricky finding that balance, but not when you have a skilled team guiding you with all these steps. Check out the different options in locations, build a list of activities that are engaging and varied, tie up all the loose ends with transportation and accommodation, and stay in touch with your retreat planner. They will be your support service all the way through to ensure your team has an amazing time.
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Last Updated on September 26, 2024
