What Makes a Great Working Team

What makes a great working team? Well, a number of things! A happy team, a productive team – a positive team! Clear objectives that the team can achieve by working together. Great working processes and some solid communication skills! Bring out these qualities in your team. They are already there! Enhance them by participating in tram building activities.

Objectives that are clear

Make sure that there you have made objectives clear. Everyone is working toward the same goal. The goal is clear too. Make sure everyone understands! At the start of any team bonding session, make the aim clear to your team. If you are considering bringing your team to a life drawing class, let them know the aim is to stimulate creativity and patience. Ask them for feedback after.

Working processes

Ensure that there is good working processes. Making, communicating, implementing and reviewing decisions will be made easier. Co-ordinate your resources. There are many Team building activities that include working together as a group. Try taking your team Paint balling! this activity encourages your teams to work together to beat the other team. They will come up with tactics that suits each others skills. It will transfer into good working processing in the work place.

Communication skills

Good communication skills are the cornerstone of a great workplace. Communication between departments means the smooth running of a business. Communication between employees is paramount. Listening skills are are a large part of communication. Increase your teams communication skills by suggesting a team building activity that requires communication. Try out a cocktail making class! Communicating which flavour combinations to your co-worker work best for you is a great way to practise this skill.. (with an event better pay off!)

Finally, if you’re planning an upcoming team building event. Make sure you contact us today and we’ll help create a fantastic team building experience.

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Memory Wall

Kayaking with your team soon? Or maybe half your team won a trip to the Spa as an incentive prize? Celebrate these moments! Planning excursions and activities can bring some more excitement into your office! Remember these occasions by creating a Memory Wall in your office. This team building activity is one that gives your team a place to remember the fun they have had together!

What is a Memory Wall?

Your office Memory Wall will be an archive of your teams most exciting moments. For example, Christmas Parties and Summer Barbecues. A few snaps of your office manager Zorbing! A group of your interns at a Gin Tea Party! Nominate someone in your office to document these events. This team building activity will make your team laugh and reminisce. In fact, all you need is a Camera! Or maybe hire a professional photographer!

On your memory wall, don’t just stop at just pictures of activities. Appreciating employee contributions is important. To make a positive effort to celebrate their accomplishments is key to a happy office. For instance, awarding an ‘Employee of the Month’ is a popular way to celebrate an individuals effort.

Celebrate your employee of the month on your wall too! Or celebrate whoever came up with an idea to make a task easier or recycled the most waste! Acknowledge a team members effort.

Why have a Memory Wall?

The wall can help build camaraderie among team members. It is a positive and encouraging way to support productivity and harmony within the office. A team is connected. Seeing each other every day. Working side by side.

Experiencing the same wacky Extreme Sport team building activities suggested by their boss! Therefore, having an ongoing memory wall is an activity that promotes team bonding. It rewards people for their efforts and celebrates the time they spend together. Mark the time spent in the office and further a field with a memory wall!

Tip : Consider hanging your memory wall in the foyer of your office. This way, visitors can see your teams achievements. Friends and relatives will be able to pick the person they know out of group pictures. It will be the first thing your employees see when they come into work. What a great way to start the day!

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How to make your Team Building Activities more effective

Planning Team Building activities can be beneficial for a number of reasons. Activities such as Watersports or Summer Barbecues can be a great way to network and create bonds! Make sure that your carefully planned activities yield positive outcomes. Learn how to make your team building activities more effective!

Have the activity during office hours

They might work in the most action packed, positive work space in town. They might absolutely love their job! And lets hope they do! It doesn’t matter how much a person loves their job, no one wants to spend extra hours in work. The evenings and weekends are for time off! No matter what company event is planned! Schedule Team Building Activities during a work day. Your employee can come in to something unexpected and fun. Unless you are planning a company wide week long trip to Bali – keep it to office hours!

Collaboration

Choose team building activities that encourages collaboration. Working together is so important. The strength of your team depends on how well they can work as a unit. Make collaboration a priority when setting out team building activities. Although competitiveness can be productive, but focussing on winning may derail the point of the exercise. Choose an activity that encourages your team to work together, instead against one another, to solve a problem. A Trip to an adventure centre is a good way to encourage working together. Centres often plan tasks that require team work to be completed!

Volunteering

Benefitting the community is wonderful motivation for a team. Volunteering their time to help out a local charity can be an effective team building activity. Your team will feel like they are making a difference! Working together to help others makes people feel good about themselves. It will enhance your teams self esteem. Spread the positivity! Plan a marathon, food drive or recycling incentive.

Going offsite

Taking your team out into the fresh air is a great way to get started! There are a number of exciting outdoor activities that you can plan. Venture beyond the four walls of the office for a day! Try something like surfing! Or Lets say you are planning a team bonding activity that could take place in a boardroom. Book this event somewhere offsite to shake things up! There are plenty of hotels that would be perfect for this kind of thing!

Accessibility

Make sure no one in your team feels left out. Many of us would enjoy active sports like paintball. The fast pace of such sports may not appeal to all members of your team! Consider the physical conditions and health needs of your employees. Choose something that everyone is excited about! Or give the group the option of two activities. Maybe one group hits the Dirt Buggys while another relaxes at a Spa! To each their own.

Communicate expectations

Communicate your expectations to your team. Before any team bonding sessions outline what you hope the outcomes will be. Make a list and send an e-mail around highlighting how the activities you have chosen could achieve these goals. Let them know that this activity should improve communication and stimulate creativity. Another could encourage networking and working together. Employees will respond to knowing why the activity is taking place!

Gather feedback

How did your crew find the trip to the pottery? It is so important to gather feedback. Ask people how they got on! Find out whether the planned activity was effective. Ask you team to provide constructive feedback. This is a great way to get to know your team. If something worked out well, maybe try it again the following year.

Finnally, How to make your Team Building Activities more effective all comes down to the willingness of the team to buy into them. Make sure to take some time to focus on this aspect also.

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The Ultimate Company Christmas Party

Its that time of year! The wooly jumpers are out. The ice is being scraped off the windshields. Make this Christmas one to remember. Throw your staff The Ultimate Company Christmas Party! Everyone loves a Christmas Party. They are a fun and classic way to celebrate with your team. They are also a wonderful way for your team to socialise. A festive team building activity!

Secret Santa :

Start off your Ultimate Company Christmas Party in the office! Secret Santa is a winner. Put everyone’s name into a hat a few weeks before the event. Let everyone pick out a name and keep it a secret! There are handy online name generators you can use too. Everyone has to get a secret present for their co-worker! Maybe set a 10 euro limit on how much everyone should spend. This will keep things fun and fair! This is an effective team building activity. Members of your team will try to find out what their co-worker likes in a subtle way in order to get them something they will enjoy! The perfect mug with a picture of a pig on it! or a voucher for their favourite Cafe. Share the presents at your company Christmas party! Everyone will be dying to know who they got!

Christmas Cake off :

Christmas Cakes recipes are so traditional! They can differ from family to family. Give your team an opportunity to show of their special Christmas Cake recipe. This will make your Ultimate Company Christmas Party go down in history. Probably, for the most cake eaten by a group of people in an afternoon. Ask your team to sign up for the Christmas Cake off a month or so before your Company Christmas Party. This will give the cakes time to mature. Bring them in and line them up at the party! Have the group judge them on presentation and flavour. Give the winner a prize. Maybe a Spa Day out? This competition gives your team a chance to tell each other about different traditions in their family! An excellent way to build rapport in your team.

Gin Tea Party :

Our Gin Tea Party is the perfect Christmas party activity. Everyone knows that Gin is in! And it goes very well with Christmas cheer! Pour team mate a a drink and get to know them.  At a Gin Tea Party there is a variety of different gins. Every gin you have ever heard of and probably more. There is also a range of accompaniments such as peppercorn, orange, cucumber – you name it! Perfect if you are having your Ultimate Company Christmas Party at your office! Or maybe take your team somewhere further a field. A Team building activity that has your team build gin and tonics! What a winner this Christmas! 

Carol Singing :

Sleigh bells ring are you listening!? So here it is, Merry Christmas! What is your favourite Christmas anthem? Get your team to e-mail with their list of favourite Christmas tunes. Print out the lyrics of a range of Christmas bangers and get your team to sing along! Take it out of the office and do it on the way to a work night out. Singing is a great way for a group to connect! You will all learn what each others favourite Christmas songs are! And learn how the singers are! (And, unfortunately, learn who should keep it to the shower!)

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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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To be honest, there are plenty more reasons to let us look after the organisation of your team building activities. Plenty more than 5 anyway that is. But for today we have put together our Top 5 Reasons To Pick BigPotatoes.ie.

Party Planning Experts

When we say we are party planning experts! We mean it. For over 10 years we have been organising hen parties, stag parties and baby showers for all different sized groups and have heard every special request you can think of. We have helped ensure each group has had a truly great night or weekend away.

Save Money

We work with some of the best suppliers in the business all over Ireland and the UK. We have negotiated some fantastic discounts so that we can organise brilliant package deals for you and your work mates.

Customer Service

Our customer support agents are some of the friendliest people in the business. They are on hand to guide and inspire you to plan the best team bonding session for your group. They simply want you to make sure you have a great time.

Only The Best

We know only the best will do for your work team, and that’s the way it should be! We only work with the best suppliers and deal with the best activity centers across Ireland and the UK.

Best Locations

Wherever you want to have your team bonding session across Ireland, we have you covered. If you and the team even feel like hopping across the pond or further a field we can sort that to!

Here are just 5 reasons of 100’s to pick BigPotatoes.ie for your team building session. Contact our team today and let us guide you through organising a team bonding session or night out your staff won’t forget.

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6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

I’m not sure about you but every week my better half asks ‘What will we do this weekend?’. Usually, I’ll suggest something that is immediately shot down before coming up a few more ideas that don’t involve sport. I thought to myself that surely I’m not the only one in this situation and that I’d share my 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend!

Jameson Distillery

We often don’t do tourist attractions that are on our own doorstep for some strange reason. Yet travel hundreds of miles to see others. Recently, I went to the magnificent Jameson Distillery in Midleton. You’ll get to enjoy a fantastic tour and learn all about the history of arguably Ireland’s finest whiskey. But you’ll also get a tour of the grounds, see how the whiskey is made. Enjoy a tasting of 3 different whiskeys and a drink in the bar also at the end. Well worth doing if you’re looking to do something this weekend folks! Maybe take the train is my advice!

The Crosshaven Walk

Now it all depends on what you want out of the weekend. But if you fancy enjoying the fresh air and going for stroll. Then I’d highly recommend the Crosshaven Walk. It starts in Carrigaline, and the car park is just about 30 seconds past the Carrigaline GAA club on the left. The walk runs along the water all the way to Crosshaven. It’s a beautiful scenic walk which is suitable for all levels of fitness. Once you get to Crosshaven I do like to treat myself with a pint in Cronins and a bag of chips for the walk back.

Trad Session in Sin é

If you have a bit of an urge for some proper traditional Irish music. Then pop over to Sin é on Coburg Street. It’s right by Patrick’s hill. A cosy little pub, with great pints and most weekends have a fantastic band or musician playing. It’s my place of choice actually for my Christmas Eve pints with the lads.

Try some O’Flynn’s Sausages

If you’re wandering the streets of Cork City and you feel a bit of a hunger come on. Pop along to now a Cork institution on Winthrop Street and try some O’Flynns Sausages. They do a fantastic variety folks and never fails to hit the spot. With the weather becoming a little chillier. It’s exactly what the doctor ordered to warm you up. You can sit outside to if you fancy and watch the hustle and bustle of the city on the weekend!

Blackrock Observatory

You could easily spend the day at The Blackrock Observatory to be honest. The observatory itself is a must for anyone who has an interest in space or stars. There is a lovely walk right beside the observatory should you fancy stretching your legs. And when you’ve worked up a hunger from your walk. They have one of Cork’s finest restaurants for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend. You can’t go wrong here!

Fota Wildlife Park

Last on our list of 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend is a trip to the Fota Wildlife Park. If you have a love of animals, which I most certainly do, then you will love Fota Wildlife Park. You can see cheetahs, monkeys, giraffes, mercats and a whole host of other animals, reptiles and creepy crawlies. It’s only a short drive from the city and is hours of fun. They have a great cafe there too should you fancy a bite to eat also.

So, there you have it folks. 6 Things to do in Cork this weekend. So, will you be heading to any one of these attractions this weekend? Finally, if you have any suggestions, make sure to send them on to info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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Cork Craft Beer – What’s your favourite?

As I write this article, the weekend is rolling in and I’m starting to work up a thirst. I love nothing more than after a long week at work to sit back on the couch with the dog and crack open a bottle of craft beer. Especially as the weather turns a bit grim on our beautiful county. I preferably go for a Cork craft beer. Not simply because I’m from Cork but also that we are spoiled with some of Ireland’s top craft breweries and they produce amazing beers, ales, stouts and ciders.

So, as I day dream of taking my first sip of my weekend beer. I thought I’d share some of my favourite Cork Craft beers!

Chieftain & Rebel Red – Franciscan Well Brewery

First up is Chieftain from the lads in the Franciscan Well Brewery. This is there answer to the growing popularity for IPA’s. It’s cloudy with a citrus aroma and is 5.5% abv. I love an IPA and this ticks all the boxes for me. It’s full of flavour and still quiet light. Meaning you’ll be back to the bar to other another one or two.

My favourite brew to come out of the Franciscan Well is their Rebel Red. A quiet exceptional Irish Red Ale I think they launched back in 1998 when I was only going into secondary school and didn’t even know what an ale was. It has hints of caramel, biscuit, hops and malt. It isn’t to gassy and so smooth to drink. The guys have it available around the city on tap, to share the love of course. But there is nothing better than popping down to the brewery itself on North Mall heading to Sunday’s well for a pint.

And if you can’t get in. They have them in cans now across the county.

Mi Daza – Rising Sons Brewery

Now, you’ll find me quiet often with a stout in hand folks. Murphy’s in most bars is a go to for me. But if I find myself in the Rising Sons for a match or for after work drinks. Then I get the lads to whack me on a pint of Mi Daza. It’s traditionally brewed to give a big rich roasted flavour. It’s thrice hopped with four malt and has hints of chocolate so I’ve read in the bar. One thing you’re sure to pick up is the taste of ‘more’ off it.

KPA Kinsale Pale Ale – Blacks Brewery

I’m not living far from Kinsale myself so when I pop into the town for a beer with the lads and a good chinwag over the state of our favourite team. I need a drink that’s strong enough but also able to relax. Following sports teams will break your heart.

The KPA Kinsale Pale Ale is jammed packed with citrus and tropical flavours that’s balanced with a malty sweetness. The tropical notes have to be inspired by being so close to the water I reckon. Either way this 5% abv beer is a tasty one lads. It’s clean crisp finish is what makes it a winner for me.

Howling Gale – 8 Degrees Brewing

At the other end of the county the guys in 8 Degrees Brewing have a fantastic IPA called Howling Gale. A great name for an Irish IPA to be fair. It has grapefruit, pine and biscuit notes lads. It’s medium body also means it has a smooth finish. This beer is great on any occasion and pairs really well with any munch you might be having.

Roaring Ruby – West Cork Brewing

Another fine Irish Red Ale makes my list in the form of Roaring Ruby by the guys in West Cork Brewing. It’s a bit darker than your average red ale but it has wonderful flavours. Caramel, toffee and a hint of coffee has me gasping for one at the thought of it now.  If you get your hands on one lads make sure to take the time to enjoy it fully.

Kerry Lane – Cotton Ball

First time I tried Kerry Lane from Cotton Ball I was at a wedding and the bride and groom had a keg of this fine pale ale on tap. And it was an open bar. Well lord save us did I develop a love for this drink. It’s full bodied guys, and has this mix of bitter and sweet notes going on. And the hops come through so well. I love a hoppy beer.

The main thing to know lads is this Cork craft beer is savage and if you ask for a pint of this. You simply not be disappointed.

Medium Dry Cider – Stonewell

I’m not a huge cider drinker. So to get me to have a cider, even on a hot summers day, is a task in itself. However, the Medium Dry Cider from Stonewell is just fantastic. It has a real freshness to it with hints of citrus too. It tastes so good. My advice is not to go too mad on the ice. The coldness masks the flavour.

So, there you have it lads. Just some of my favourite Cork Craft Beer selections. Is there any cork craft beer you should think I should be trying? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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A Sweet Treat in Cork City

I think at this stage it’s obvious that I have a certain love for Cork and it’s businesses. And as you’re all very aware I’m partial to the culinary delights of this great city for a work lunch, after work drinks and even a burger. However, one thing I have yet to touch on is where I head for a sweet treat. To go with yet another coffee I’ve purchased. So, here’s where to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City.

Sticky Fingers Cork

I know recently people went complete mental for donuts around Cork, Dublin, Ireland and the world. And that some people are now sick of them. I for one still can’t get enough of them. As I said it is a treat and I love nothing more to enjoy one with a coffee. So, if I’m passing Sticky Fingers on Emmet place I make sure to pop in for one…or two. They have some great hand made donut concoctions and I’ve yet to taste a donut in there I didn’t like. My personal favourite is the Snickers!

I also enjoy eating it outside the Opera House, take a minute or two and watch the people pass by. Before realizing I really should get my ass back to work! Do make sure you pop into the guys!

Cupcake Cottage

Not far from Anglesea Street, actually I may even be on it. Either way you’ll find the delicious Cupcake Cottage. You can’t miss it guys with it being right next to another top food house in Ramen. The team in Cupcake Cottage bake everything in house and they are just soooo good! The Red Velvet is by far my favourite and I’ll let you in on a little secret lads. A box of red velvet cupcakes has the power to get you out of the dog house! So, I say thank you Cupcake Cottage!

Heaven’s Cakes

Last on my list is Heaven’s Cakes in the English Market. Now I know there are tons of incredible traders in there. The butchers, fish mongers and olive hoarders have seen plenty of my business. I do love supporting local when and where I can. It only benefits us all and Cork at the end of the day.

But back to finding a sweet treat. I’ll make a B-Line lads to Heaven’s Cakes which is a traditional french patisserie with a modern twist. If you like the classic deserts then this where you should go. Pick up a few for the team back in the office and all enjoy a good chinwag over a cup of team. Team Building ideas don’t have to be to over complicated.

So there you have it folks. Just a few places to find a Sweet Treat in Cork City as you meander through this great city. Do you have a particular favourite?

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3 Best Burger Places in Cork City

I recently published an article on my 3 top lunch picks for a work lunch in Cork city. As I mentioned in that article I love my food and if I can combine enjoying some of Cork’s best food with a work meeting. I’m rocking! So as I was strolling through the city today coming up to lunch time. My nostrils caught the sent of burgers cooking. It inspired me to gather my 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City!

This article should really have come with a warning not to read on an empty stomach coming up to lunch!

Son of a Bun

Just around the corner from the office here is Son of a Bun. Every lunch time I have the eternal struggle between the ‘Treat yo self‘ side of me and the ‘You brought lunch, it’s healthier and you’re on a diet for a wedding‘ side of me. Any time I go in there I indulge. Simply put, I get a juicy burger off the menu. Usually the S.O.B and make it double. Get fries, mac & cheese and if I’m fragile after the weekend a shake.

After you’ve satisfied your hunger it may be very difficult to have a constructive meeting. But, as Father Stack said in Father Ted. “I had my fun and that’s all that matters”

Bunsen

Located on French Church street in the heart of the city centre is Bunsen. And after you’ve tried one of their burgers it will have a special place in your heart. Trust me on that. It’s the “Simple things in life” they say. Bunsen’s menu is simple but my good god the burgers are divine. They don’t mess about with anything fancy. They just serve up a great burger or cheeseburger, fries and a drink. Also they only have a handful of toppings to choose from.

I suspect the reason for this is to make sure you don’t ruin you’re own burger before eating it. That you truly enjoy the burger for what it is! Once you bite into one. You’ll understand and you will need some sort of miracle to resurrect that work meeting you were planning on having after you ate.

West Cork Burger Company

Now, if you’re not already salivating at the thought of a burger. There is something wrong with you. I’m already planning when I’m off for a burger next. So, its off to Washington Street to the West Cork Burger Company. Anyone who has been, knows just how good a burger it is.

The patties are full of flavour and juicy. The toppings and sauces are next level and the sides are top drawer. There will be a few groans of delight as you bite in. It’s probably at this moment that you’ve completely forgotten you had something work related to discuss after eating. But it’s worth it.

I’m a huge believer that we are spoiled in Cork City with all the fantastic burger places we have. It’s fantastic to see businesses in Cork thriving and if they keep serving up burgers and food like they have. They’ll be thriving for years to come. And I may possibly have to take out a small loan to quiet literally feed my habit!

So guys these are what I think are the 3 Best Burger Places in Cork City! Do you agree? Or should I be adding another few to the list? Let me know on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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After Work Drinks in Cork City

The weekend is nearly here, well that’s what I keep tell myself. And like you I’m slowing counting down the minutes until it’s time to call it a week. One thing I love to do when possible is enjoy a drink after work in Cork City before popping home to relax for the night. Here are just a few of my suggestions for After Work Drinks in Cork City with you colleagues!

Electric

A brilliant after work drinks venue before the rush of the weekend arrives. Electric sits in a fantastic spot along the River Lee. It’s serves great drinks and cocktails. And when the sun is shining the place is a hive of activity as everyone enjoys a few drinks in the sun by the water and on the grass outside.

Sextant

I’ve put the Sextant on my list as I pass it on my way home from work. It’s not smack bang in the city centre but nevertheless it’s a great place to meet for some after work drinks. It’s cosy on a cold evening and open and airy on a warm evening with it’s outdoor space. The pints have a taste of more off them.

Soho

Another top city centre bar for an after work refreshment. Soho is my bar of choice if I’m looking to enjoy a beer and catch a match also. The big screen means wherever you are in the bar you’ll see all the action.

Mutton Lane

If you’re looking for a bar that’s tucked away from the evening rush then Mutton Lane is for you. It’s down a narrow street, of Patrick’s street and pours a fantastic pint. They also have a few craft beers on tap should you fancy changing it up. I do drink more than just Murphy’s.

Rising Sons

Lastly on my list of places for After Work Drinks in Cork City is the Rising Sons on Cornmarket Street. It serves up its own fantastic beer which is brewed in house. Also they’ll have any big match on the screen and have a Foosball table to take on a work colleague. When you’ve worked up an appetite they have a wonderful selection of pizzas too.

So there you have it folks. Just a few of my suggestions for some After Work Drinks in Cork City! Is there any places you enjoy a quiet one after work you’d like to share? Drop us an email on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork

I’m going to say it, we are spoiled in Cork for a venues to have a work lunch in. There is nothing better than having a work lunch in my opinion. But for those who know me, know that I love me food, this won’t come as a great surprise. A work lunch I find is a great way to have to discuss various topics and it allows a meeting/conversation flow more naturally and often times new ideas come out of them. So, here are my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork!

Perry Street Cafe

If you’ve not eaten here yet. I want you to get up now and go grab some food in Perry Street. It is simply one of Cork’s culinary hot spots in my opinion and does incredible food daily. The venue is open and airy and makes it a wonderful space for a work lunch.

After you’ve eaten I’d suggest grabbing a coffee and enjoy this relaxing space as you go through the reason you actually decided to have a work lunch. Such is the popularity around lunch time I’d suggest calling ahead and asking to book a table if it’s a work lunch engagement. Just to be safe.

Market Lane

Again another fantastic restaurant for a work lunch. Located at the bottom of Oliver Plunkett street in Cork City you’ll be salivating over what to eat for lunch in Market Lane. You may even forget your reason for even being there. They have such an extensive and varied menu to suit any type of palate.

As a venue for a work lunch, it is perfect. It’s a relaxing restaurant, people aren’t on top of you and you can speak freely with out fear of someone listening in. Maybe the last one is just me.

Cask

Lastly on our lists is Cask on McCurtain Street. Just around the corner from me here in office, I’ve sampled it’s lunch time menu a few times. Each time is better than the last and that’s why its on my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork. If I’m having a work lunch this would be my first shout.

I already mentioned the food but again, like the others above, the space is inviting, comfortable but also allows you to do some real work when it comes time to knuckle down. I also love the window seats from a personal point of view. Watching the world go by always helps me think of creative ideas if it’s that type of work lunch.

So, they are my 3 Top Lunch Picks for a Work Lunch in Cork. Where do you go for your work lunch? Or is there anywhere you’d recommend for my next work lunch.

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Cork, Coffee and Meetings!

One of the best things about being located in the heart of Cork City is that there is no shortage of fantastic coffee shops and locations for a meeting. I love nothing more than getting out of the office to have a work meeting or enjoy a change of scenery as I make my way through a mountain of emails. I also love how a meeting in a Cork coffee shop always sparks my creative side. As I write, “Cork, Coffee and Meetings”, I’m sat at the window of a coffee shop looking at people passing by and enjoying yet another fantastic brew.

As I mentioned, different locations and a particularly good coffee shop sparks my creative side. So, I thought I’d throw together some of my favourite coffee shops to not only grab a fine brew but to also have a meeting. Who knows they may help to spark you’re creative side too.

The Bookshelf

I pass the Bookshelf on my stroll into the office each morning. Each morning the inviting aroma always tickles the senses. I’m a huge fan of their coffee and I make sure if I grab a cup that I have the time to enjoy it. So, this is one of my go to places for a work meeting over a coffee. I can sit down and relax with my coffee then have a productive meeting in a comfortable setting.

Now, I love the hustle of people chatting, coming and going and all the sounds. But, If I need a little more privacy or a quieter area for a meeting. There is a delightful upstairs area. It has everything you need for a meeting in Cork City over a coffee.

I even have friends that when they’re back from Dublin, work remotely all day in the Bookshelf. Check it out!

Cork Coffee Roasters

Next on my list of great places for a coffee in Cork is the Cork Coffee Roasters on Bridge Street. I’m the envy of a lot of my friends as our office is only around the corner from this great coffee shop. I love popping in their around 11am or when the 3pm slump hits for a little pick me up. It’s also worth noting that if you bring in your reusable coffee cup, you get 50 cent off.

The interior is cool and understated and it’s a relaxing spot to take 10 mins out of a busy day to chill and enjoy a coffee. It’s also a great spot for a brainstorming session in my opinion. And, if the sun is shining they have a fantastic window seat outside to enjoy a coffee in the sun.

Soma Coffee Company

Soma is a really cool coffee shop on Tuckey street in the city. If you don’t know where that is, it’s the street by the fountain and Hillbilly’s. Not long open, but the guys are making big waves in the cork coffee scene. I’ve enjoyed a few coffees and work meetings here and you really can’t go wrong.

Plenty of space to chat, have a meeting, work and the guys always make you feel very welcome. They recently got their own in house coffee roaster that is on show too.

Dukes Coffee

If you take a stroll down Carey’s Lane which is just off the main street in Cork. You’ll find another smashing coffee house. They have tons of different blends, always talk you through them or give you suggestions. And the food they have to go with it is just savage.

It’s a wonderful place for a work meeting, slash coffee, slash lunch, slash to get work done. It can be whatever you want it to be really. But, if you’re looking for a quality cup of coffee. You won’t be disappointed with Dukes.

The Atrium in the Clayton Hotel

Located along the river and right by the Port of Cork the Clayton Hotel and more importantly the Atrium inside is a fantastic spot to grab a coffee, do a bit of work and have a work meeting. They have high tables with plenty of sockets to charge phones and laptops which is worth noting

If you’re planning a more relaxed meeting and chat you’ll find comfy couches and space which allows you to explore your creative side. Sure who can’t be creative with big Golden Balls hanging over head.

So, here was just a few of my favourite Coffee Shops in Cork City for a meeting. Make sure you pop in for a brew sometime and enjoy a work meeting there.

Finally, is there anywhere you’d add to “Cork, Coffee and Meetings”??

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11 Tricks to Look Smarter In Meetings

BigPotatoes.ie are here to help every aspect of your team. Now our expertise is in creating fantastic and mind blowing team building events, Christmas parties and work nights out to mention a few. But we do like to help out in your day to day life. We all have meetings we’d rather not be in or at or wondering why you even need to be there. When that happens we tend not to focus as much or put to much effort in. So, here are 11 Tricks to Look Smarter In Meetings to hide that lack of focus.

1. Percentages into Fractions

When some starts stating percentages this is your chance to chime in with some very quick math to impress everyone and make them think you’re fully engaged in the meeting. For example “20% of people are finding us via mobile” you reply with “So about 1 in 5”

People will nod in agreement and make a note.

2.  “Take a Step Back”

Four beautiful words that you should all have ready to go if you’ve drifted away and are now not sure what’s happening in the meeting. People are all talking quickly and you’re the only one not inputting. This is your moment to come in and say “Let’s take a step back” and then follow it swiftly with something like “What are actually trying to achieve?”. And now you’ve bought yourself another 30 minutes of not thinking but still look smart.

3. Taking Notes

This is a classic and was always going to make 11 tricks to look smarter in meetings. Bring a note pad to the meeting. Write down a word from each sentence. A note some would call it. All the time nodding your head. You’ll look engaged, concentrated and smart.

4. “Can this be Scaled?”

Another fantastic four word saying that must have been invented specifically for meetings. Again, if you’re looking to appear a touch smarter in a meeting. When the opportunity presents itself, hit them with “Can this be scaled?”. Scaled up, scaled back you name it. It’s a great universal term to add input into a meeting.

5. Can I See the Last Slide Again

Very similar to point to number 3 above. Asking can you go back to the last slide to make note makes you appear smarter, more engaged and have a willingness to take in all the information. Make sure you actually say that you want to make note of something. Otherwise you do run the risk of looking like you were not paying attention.

6. Important Phone Call

We’ve all done it at some point in our lives. It may not have been a meeting but we’ve all utter those words “I have to take this” and then swiftly leave the room. It’s probably your mother on the line asking how your day is going and will you be out at the weekend for dinner. Vitally important phone call.

It is still however a great move to demonstrate ones importance and their work ethic as they seem busy.

7. Explain that for Everyone

We’ve all been in a meeting when someone says a word or something that you have zero clue about. Don’t worry guys, there is a fantastic way to find out what they mean and look smart at the same time. It goes something like this…”I’m not sure everyone in the team knows what [insert word] means, can you explain it?”

8. Acronyms

Want to look smart in a meeting? Simple. Turn a phrase into an acronyms. When some says something like “we’ll need those yearly progress reports by Monday” and you chime up with “I’ll get working on those YPR’s for Monday”!

9. Sticky Notes

This trick can be used both in meetings and on at your desk. Adding a sticky not to pages in a presentation with a note is always a smart looking move. Also having sticky notes physically stuck to your laptop also shows how smart you are and your work ethic is so good that you need the information in direct eye line as not to waist time.

10. Alternate between Agreeing and Disagreeing

Another classic manoeuvre to use in a meeting to look smart. Switch from agreeing with certain things and disagreeing with others. It shows that you’re considering both sides and have an opinion. It goes something like “I like the sound of that” to “I’m not to sure about that”

11. Email Summary

Finally on our list of 11 tricks to look smarter in meetings, at the very end of the meeting to help you look smarter. Ask who is going to send an email with a summary of today’s meeting. We’d advise you avoid doing it yourself personally if you were not being paying attention!

So, there you have it, 11 Tricks to look Smarter In Meetings! Have you come across any of these in your previous meetings? And will you be using any of them in an upcoming meeting?

Lastly, if you’re looking to organise a work night out or team building event. Drop us a line on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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Work Night Out Ideas

Regardless of how many years you’ve been working for, a work night out is always something everyone looks forward to. A night where everyone lets their hair down and enjoys each others company over a few drinks. A work night out is more than just a drink. It’s a fantastic team building event and there are plenty of ways to maximize its benefits. So, here are a few of our favourite Work Night Out Ideas!

Here at BigPotatoes.ie we’ve split our Work Night Out Ideas into 3 categories. Activities, Games and Out There Ideas!

Activities

Firstly, the key to a good work night out is choosing an activity that everyone will enjoy, get involved in, take something away from and hopefully not have done before.

Weather permitting there are fantastic outdoor activities available all across Ireland. You can fuel your teams need for speed and competitive side with some Karting. Get into the trenches with some Paintball and who knows settle some scores. Try a whole host of activities from abseiling to kayaking in an Adventure Centre. And, if you fancy getting your feet wet before a few drinks, give Surfing a go or even be a big kid on an Inflatable Water Park

If your team is looking for a more relaxing affair. You can always indulge them with a Spa Day. Who doesn’t love a  relaxing massage?

Finally, if you’re just looking to get the night and party started early. You can’t go wrong with a Cocktail Making Class, a BBQ, a spot of Karaoke or even a Gin Tea Party. Start as you mean to go they say!

Games

On a work night out we always recommend having a few games organised. They don’t have to be anything crazy but just a few to help the party get started.

A great work night out game is the table quiz. Our advice, keep it short and sweet but make sure the questions are tricky and that there is no googling answers.

One of our favourite things to do on a work night out here in BigPotatoes HQ is to break out a few old board games from our childhood. Hungry, hungry hippo is always sure to get everyone fired up. Buckaroo will get the heart racing and nerves heightened. And who can forget Jenga. A game that always captivates people!

Other great work night out games are doing your own scavenger hunt. You can make it very simple an include things that you can collect by taking pics on your phone. ‘What’s My Name’ is a classic and all you’ll need is to raid the stationary cupboard for a pen and some post-it’s. A personal favourite of my mine is catchphrase. You can download a free app to help.

Out There Ideas!

Here at BigPotatoes.ie we organise incredible work nights out that include an activity, food and drinks all over Ireland. But, if you’re still looking for work night out ideas that are just out there and are going to be a first for people.

Then, let us suggest activities like Axe Throwing, Renting Sumo Suits, Zorbing, Dirt Buggies, Escape Rooms or even Paint a Nude. Think you’ll be able to keep a straight face during that last activity?

So there you have it. Just a few work night out ideas for your to mull over.

Finally, before you book anything. Drop us a line on info@bigpotatoes.ie for more details on what we can offer your next work night out! 

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5 Types of People That Make Up a Team

Every team is made up of many different parts, components, procedures and most importantly people. A happy team is a well working team. Team building events, work nights out or even the Christmas party all feed into creating a dynamic and high performing team. However, it’s important to identify the types of people in a team and also realize which need to be driven on or removed. Here are the 5 Types of People That Make Up A Team!

The High Performer

This person knows what to do, where to bring the company or team and is the person on the team that drives things on. They’ll be the one that takes full responsibility for his job and this will benefit the team or organisation immensely.

The Worker

Every team has one and needs a great worker in the team. They’ll have an appetite to work, learn and continually improve themselves. The correct guidance, training and challenges will ensure that in the future the worker will transition into ‘the High Performer’.

The Less Effective Worker

We’ve all worked with one or been in a team with someone who is willing to somewhat help. They’ll do their work but their contribution is not making a huge difference to the overall result.

The Trouble Maker

The trouble maker or potential trouble maker tends to go up and down. They fluctuate between helping and doing zero work which is destructive to any team. His influence makes work for the team harder and less predictable for the other members.

The Suppressive Person

They are the one member of a team that often goes unnoticed but is destroying the operation, company or team. They often spend the majority of their time hiding his/her deeds, poor work or lack of motivation with the use of a “nice” social mask. If this person goes undetected, it can be a very dangerous threat to any organisation.

Learning how to differentiate between the different members of any team is vital for the growth of any team. This will help your team perform more effectively and allow your team to feel more safe and stable in their roles and reach their goals. Team building activities and events will help to move people from one type of worker to another or at least strive to become a high performer.

So there you have it, the 5 Types of People That Make Up a Team. Now all you have to do is ask yourself, which one am I?

Finally, don’t forget to get in touch about planning your next team building event and drop us an email on info@bigpotatoes.ie!

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