Don’t dismiss the value of office parties, picnics, sporting events, and other social events in training, team-building, and onboarding efforts. In fact, these activities can help increase engagement, ownership, and enthusiasm on the part of employees. They provide:
- Internal networking opportunities (especially for new employees who may be struggling to fit in and find their place in the organization).
- A forum for informal conversation. Employees may feel more comfortable sharing ideas in social situations; and they have a chance to get to know each other as people.
- Cultural socialization. Social events immerse new employees in the organizational culture and give them a chance to observe interactions and relationships. They can see how people communicate with each other at all levels.
