Different companies have different rules. Some could be strict and traditional while a lot of the newer ones are more laid back and innovative.
Whether you’re part of the first or the second one, company outings are more or less something that they have in common. If you’re part of the human resources department, it might even be your task to plan them.
There is a long list of things to consider for a successful company outing. It may include deciding whether or not you’re hiring a destination management company, finalizing logistical needs, emailing and coordinating with everyone’s schedule.
It can be quite hectic which is why covering the following steps can help you have an easier time planning:
1. Hiring a destination management company (DMC)
A lot of people may not be familiar with what this company does. They do everything for you, from drafting the program to auditing the expenses. When your company plans to have a trip outside of your local area, it might be hard to research the best places if you do not know anyone in the target area. A DMC keeps up to date with the knowledge and insight of the area that they are situated in.
They are experts that can plan a perfect itinerary while making sure that you’re not only enjoying, but also stress-free. If you do decide to hire a DMC, you can stop reading here, because you’re done.
2. Survey your colleagues
This is both the first and the most crucial step among all the steps. Primarily because they are the people, you also aim to entertain on the trip. If the “clients” (in this case, your colleagues) are unhappy, then the whole trip is unhappy. Creating a poll of ideas and having them pitch in would help make the outing more enjoyable for everyone.
3. Finding a venue
Before planning out a program that is tailor-fitted according to your colleagues’ requests, you have to lock in a venue first. The venue might eat the largest chunk out of your budget, right next to food and drinks. Not only that, but the location would also determine if your colleagues’ plans are doable. For example, your workmates want to zip line, but the only resort that provides that activity is out of your price range.
4. Draft a program
Planning the program for the whole trip can be tedious because you have to consider everyone’s ideas. At this point, you might also have to make some decisions on your own. Say two of your colleagues have contrasting ideas and can’t come to a compromise. You’re going to have to choose one that would benefit the team the most.
The program must also have spaces for delays and downtime for your workmates to relax. Allotting enough time to prepare for an activity is key to make everything smooth.
5. Secure food
You wouldn’t want people to get all hangry on you. Make sure that everyone’s diet is taken to account (if people are allergic to this, or if they don’t eat that.)
Gathering feedback would be the last step so that you know what you did right and where you may have flopped. Regardless, it will help create an even better outing the next time!
