Thriving Workplace Culture: How Events Can Create a Positive and Connected Workplace
Workplaces have inevitably shifted towards a hybrid model. More than a third of Australians currently work from home; whilst some companies are reviewing a full return to the office, for many the hybrid work model is not going anywhere anytime soon. With reduced face-to-face time, creating a more connected workplace can feel like a challenge. Events present a unique opportunity to not only make the most of face-to-face interaction, but to foster an environment for connection, creativity and team-building, both inside and outside of the office.
Face to Face Connection
Whilst your team might see each other virtually throughout the working week, research highlights the link between face-to-face connection and mental health. Amidst internet issues, poor quality audio and the inevitable disconnect of not being in the same room, the digital screen doesn’t always provide the best environment for connection between your team. Events are a fantastic way to bring your team together, without disrupting their work-from-home schedule. Consider a celebration outside of the office for the End of Financial Year, or host a team-building workshop (suppliers like Be Challenged can bring these workshops to your own office). By bringing the team together in one place, you can provide an environment for them to converse and build relationships.
Show Your Team Their Value
A large part of healthy, happy workplaces is simply feeling valued. Employees not only want to feel a part of a team, but to feel like their company invests in, and values their time. According to the APA, 93% of employees who feel valued are not only more engaged and motivated to do their work, but reported better physical and mental wellbeing. Show your team their value by investing in opportunities to celebrate their achievements; host an awards night to shine a spotlight on your team’s hard work. Or, consider activities that allow your team the opportunity to both reset and enjoy each other’s company, from thrill-seeking action to meditative wellness sessions.
Moments That Matter
Aligning with a company’s values can build the stepping stones for a strong and supportive work culture. There are a variety of ways that events can showcase your company values; corporate volunteering is a fantastic way to get your team out of the office to give back to the community, fostering positivity and camaraderie. Providing upskilling and networking opportunities equally showcase a commitment to learning and career growth; from workshops and mentoring sessions to industry networking events. By connecting your team with values important to your company, you can create an environment they feel proud to work in.
OOO: Out of the Office
Taking time outside of the normal 9-5 environment is crucial to giving your team new stimuli, and a way to reset and refresh. It’s easy for your workplace to get stuck in their BAU (business-as-usual). Give them a fresh environment to re-invigorate new ideas and creativity. This doesn’t always have to be reserved for special events; book your next meeting or conference outside of your office and treat your team to a catered lunch, offering a simple change in routine can help to avoid the feeling of ‘rinse and repeat’.
Creating a supportive and connected workplace not only creates happier teams, but increases their overall mental health and productivity. From award celebrations to meetings outside of the office, there’s an array of events that can support a more positive workplace culture.
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