Why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner

Is it any surprise really that a summer BBQ is top of the list when it comes to relaxed interaction, friendship and team building? Here’s why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner.

Numbers attending a BBQ are irrelevant as the atmosphere is always fun whether it’s a large crowd or a small group. It’s an ideal way of getting a group of people together to do some bonding and in particular, team building.

At first glance one might question how a casual fun occasion could promote team building?

Organising a BBQ really should not be the responsibility of just one person. There are so many different strands associated with such an event. It’s a perfect opportunity to do some serious team building. Different personalities and skill sets come to the fore from people least expected. Team building is not just falling into a set routine and playing follow the leader. It is about bringing out the wide range of different skills and attributes that individuals possess and blending them together so there is perfect harmony in the exercise.

Team  building is at its best when everyone involved is enjoying the occasion. That’s why a summer BBQ is always a team building winner. It’s not about the individual, it’s about the team. It’s about fun and enjoyment and all about working together to get the best outcome.

If we examine all the different strands associated with a BBQ we will see the many different facets that sort of speak, go into the melting pot.

Firstly, someone must organize a venue. As in proper team building a consensus is required. That particular task can be taken on board by someone who is a natural in art of loving outdoor spaces. Building a team around such knowledge is of great benefit to those on the team. The next is the sourcing of equipment, tables, chairs, BBQ, coals, firelighters, and down to the little things like a box of matches. Someone with a procurement background could do this with one hand tied behind their back. But, to make it a team building event, people without these skills should be attached to the group.

If it’s to be a real team building exercise, then careful consideration should be given to these details. With a venue sorted, equipment needed for the occasion organized, the group is on its way to making a BBQ a perfect team building exercise. Look, there is always someone that loves to cook. He or she may be reluctant to take a leading role in the BBQ team building extravaganza, but a little bit of coaxing and the building of a team of gourmet learners that love the sound of a sausage sizzling over hot coals is not impossible.

The team building BBQ Gig is now under way. The Culinary team is identified and ready to rock. Part of this team has got to be a section that organizes the breads, salads, sauces and all the little bits and bobs that go to making the outdoor dining tables a work of team building art. There is of course the little question of sorting out a bar. Chilled beers, wines, minerals and copious amounts of Ice. Let’s not forget the fruit and the cheese. Music, table and seating arrangements become part of this group’s task.

What makes a BBQ team building exercise so enjoyable is the interaction between all the different small groups as each is dependent on the other in terms of timing, quality and delivery of the end result.

A BBQ team building exercise is chatty, fun and always enjoyable.

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3 Ways to Show Your Staff Appreciation

At the end of the day, your staff are what makes your company so great! They are the force keeping everything going. Whether you have hundreds of employees or a group of five, they are all important. This is a list of 3 ways to show your staff appreciation are the best ways to show your team you care about them.

Celebrate Happy Birthdays

Celebrate your staff members birthday by ordering a big cake. Be it lemon drizzle, apple pie or a big chocolate sponge cake! Find out their favourite and pop some candles on it. A cake with a picture of their face on it will be sure to go down a treat.

Get them a gift! Ask around to find out what they would appreciate the most. A simple piece of jewellery or a luxury Spa break? Or tickets to an upcoming rugby match! Order pizza for the office and make lunch break a party!

Have employees birthdays on a calendar so that no one is left out. Show your Staff Appreciation by throwing them a birthday party!

Host events for the entire company.

Hosting an event for the entire company is a great way to say Thanks for all the hard work.

An Annual Christmas Party or Summer BBQ is something fun to look forward to. Employees can get dressed up and get to know one another. Maybe hire a professional band to play? A jazz band to keep things elegant or something more upbeat like a band plays nostalgic songs from the 80’s and 90’s! Show your whole staff appreciation by finding out what they are into by using a suggestions box!

Having a themed party is a great way to break the ice. 1920’s Prohibition themed nights will always be a favourite. Any fancy dress party will get people excited. Don’t forget to give a prize for the best costume!

Redecorate the Break Room

Jazz up your break room to make it a place where your employees actually want to spend their break! A few stylish tables and chairs and a big comfortable couch will make all of the difference. A nice big television so that you team can catch up with the news. A decent coffee machine. A charging port for phones and electronics would be very useful!

The break room is a great place to put up pictures of employee of the month! Show your team that you are thinking of them by making the break room somewhere comfortable. The group will love relaxing and socializing in this professional but cosy space.

So there you have it folks. Just 3 Ways to Show Your Staff Appreciation. It doesn’t take much but these activities will boost team morale and productivity long term in the team.

Finally, if you need any help in planning your next work night out or team building event. Make sure and drop us a line on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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