In the era of fierce competition, businesses are realising the value of work picnics to enhance employee well-being, team cohesion and job satisfaction. That’s why, companies today are demonstrating their commitment to a positive work-life culture.
Since employees are an inevitable part of a business, catering to their well-being becomes an important task. When employees engage in fun and interactive activities outside work environments, it builds trust, encourages open communication and enhances collaboration, thereby leading to increased job satisfaction.
Many companies arrange work picnics but fail to execute them effectively. Several factors, such as lack of planning, oversight of health concerns, neglecting important details and miscommunications, contribute to employers failing to arrange a successful picnic. That’s why we have prepared this guide to help you plan a fun picnic for your employees.
Together, let’s go through this step-by-step process that you can refer to while planning a work picnic.
Location Scouting
Work picnics provide a break from the monotony of work life, fostering team spirit and collaboration. However, when planning an ideal picnic or an outing, the choice of location greatly affects the overall experience and sets the tone for the event.
Moreover, based on the location you choose for your work picnic your plan of action will change. If you are hosting the picnic within the area of your workplace, you may be able to easily plan the event.
On the other hand, if you plan a picnic in a different location, for instance, Birmingham, you may need to get in touch with an HR from Birmingham to help you plan the corporate event effectively.
Accessibility is a significant consideration which is why choosing a location that is easy to reach ensures maximum involvement and minimises travel-related stress. Pick something simple like camping, trekking, hiking or anything else as per everyone’s convenience.
Moreover, before planning the event, managers must consider the venue’s suitability to ensure the availability of amenities, proper seating arrangements, and shaded areas that contribute to a picnic’s success.
Check Weather Conditions
Let’s say you plan a fun outdoor gathering, only to realise that it has been spoiled by unexpected weather conditions. Well, who would want that, right?
Therefore, you must be aware of the weather conditions in advance to make well-informed decisions regarding the venue, timings and arrangements..
Depending on the weather forecast, you’ll be better able to determine what kind of activities can be easily performed under certain conditions. For instance, if the weather is hot or sunny, you might arrange for some outdoor fun activities. Likewise, if rains are forecasted or if it’s too windy, you might like to try some indoor activities.
Choose Team-Building Activities
An excellent strategy for fostering team spirit is to select team-building activities that combine fun and productivity. Ranging from quad biking activity days to glamping under the starry night, there is a wide range of activities that you can choose from.
After conducting thorough research, you can develop team-building activities that match your employees’ tastes and preferences. This is because when collaborative games or challenges are encouraged, individuals tend to work together as a team to break barriers and learn from each other.
Additionally, participating in these activities boosts employee morale and job satisfaction. When employees engage in activities that are outside of their comfort zone, it promotes a sense of adventure, which in turn brings in renewed energy.
Thus, well-planned team-building exercises allow employees to engage, and communicate with each other, contributing to a dynamic work culture.
Arrange Transportation
When planning a work picnic, it is essential for you to arrange transportation services to ensure that employees participate without facing any travel problems.
Since not all employees may have access to appropriate transportation to reach the venue or may face trouble getting to the location, employers must provide reliable transportation. By offering transport options, employers can ensure that everyone, regardless of their commuting distance can participate in the event.
When employers take concrete steps to incorporate modes of transportation, it eliminates barriers to attendance. It also means that employees do not have to worry about navigating unfamiliar routes, traffic or parking, allowing the event to run smoothly.
Moreover, coordinating transportation reduces the likelihood of fatigue or stress that can occur from long commute times. Not only this but travelling together allows employers to interact and bond with their employees.
Employ Safety Measures
Safety measures play a pivotal role when planning a work picnic. This is because it protects employees’ well-being, demonstrates care and reduces liability, leading to the success of a work picnic.
No activity comes with a 100% guarantee of safety. That is why incorporating safety measures and protocols becomes a crucial part of planning a work picnic. Unlike indoor activities, outdoor settings can pose a greater risk that might result in potential accidents or injuries.
By anticipating potential hazards in an activity, employers can arrange for first-aid kits that include sanitisers, medicines, bandages, ointments and antiseptic wipes.
When employees are aware that their safety is taken seriously, it can help the picnic unfold as planned, leaving employees with positive experiences.
Ensure Food Accommodations
Planning a work picnic is incomplete without arranging proper hydration and food accommodations.
With a variety of food and hydration options, employees have access to nutritious and wholesome meals that keep them satisfied. Since every individual has different dietary preferences, it is a good idea to provide diverse options to satisfy their taste buds.
Likewise, adequate hydration is equally crucial for maintaining energy levels, boosting strength, enhancing focus and supporting employees’ overall health. Incorporating clean water, energy drinks, coconut water, fruit juices, warm soups and more can help employees stay not only hydrated but also refreshed throughout the day.
When employees’ food needs are taken care of, they feel more supported and balanced, which makes them more likely to participate in future events as well.
Keep Everyone in the Loop
Clear and open communication with the participants involved is essential for a successful picnic experience.
Transparency promotes preparation. By communicating all vital information regarding the picnic such as date, time, location and activities in advance, you provide employees with ample time to make necessary adjustments. Clear communication ensures that everybody participates and avoids unintentional exclusions.
Moreover, following the picnic, employees can provide employers with valuable feedback regarding overall planning and implementation, allowing them to incorporate their suggestions for future events.
To Sum Up
It is to be understood that planning the perfect work picnic isn’t just a leisure activity; it’s a strategic investment in team cohesion, morale and trust. It’s a chance for employers to show appreciation and acknowledge the contributions of their employees’ hard work and dedication.
When an organisation makes consistent efforts to meticulously plan an event, it demonstrates that employees’ well-being is taken care of. Moreover, it bridges the gap between employer and employee, resulting in a purposeful endeavour.
