Due to technological advances over the past 25+ years and the proven ability for employees to work productively from home through the Covid pandemic, it is safe to say hybrid work is here to stay. Although hybrid work offers a great deal of flexibility and convenience, it can also create a sense of isolation and disconnection amongst teammates. Unfortunately, even though we are more connected than ever due to technology, loneliness and depression are at record levels and have steadily increased since the 1970’s. [1] In this regard, more connection via technology does not mean better. As such there is a growing need for corporations to create opportunities for in-person connection, and identify executive retreat locations for colleagues to meet, mingle, and make the magic that only in-person connection can create.
Executive retreats are a powerful tool for increasing authentic connection and fostering a sense of community amongst colleagues. When we bring people together at executive retreat locations, it is typically in a new, inspiring, and unfamiliar environment away from our normal place and method of work. We can actively breakdown barriers and facilitate meaningful interactions through in-person learning and activities. Here are some key reasons why executive retreats are an effective way to increase genuine, human connection:
- Shared experiences: Retreat experiences are usually unforgettable and provide the stage for learning & growth that are hard to replicate in other settings. Utilizing a retreat, where colleagues leave their normal place of work & routine and engage in carefully crafted activities such as outdoor adventures, cultural excursions, and deep thinking/problem solving activities, teammates share experiences that increase trust, communication, and camaraderie.
- In-person communication: Technological advances (facetime, zoom, social media), have made it easier than ever to stay connected with colleagues remotely, yet there is no substitute for the relationship building that occurs with in-person communication. Retreats provide a space where teammates can interact with each other in-person without distractions. Body language and tone can be fully received, and the entire environment can be incorporated into the communication picture. This leads to more meaningful conversations and deeper connections.
- Increased empathy: When teammates work remotely, it can be easy to forget that there are real people behind the emails and messages and there is only so much body language one can read on a zoom call. Retreats provide an opportunity for colleagues to get to know one another on a personal level, which can help to increase empathy, understanding, and trust.
- A break from routine: Retreats catapult us out of our normal routine and provide structure to engage in something different. This in turn increases our creative abilities & potential to solve problems & have breakthrough ideas.
The hybrid work model has many benefits employees are demanding, and when organizations offer this flexibility AND out of the box learning and development opportunities such as retreats, attracting and retaining talent becomes more likely. For example, Gen Z & Millenials are insisting on employers that offer robust development opportunities.[2] If you aren’t investing in a progressive learning & development strategy, you will have a difficult time attracting, let alone retaining this important demographic that will comprise 33% of your workforce by 2025. Identify executive retreat locations for your team to come together and increase trust, creativity, problem solving and ultimately witness the enhanced productivity this connection creates.
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[1] https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/why-americans-are-lonelier-and-its-effects-on-our-health
[2] “The Deloitte Global 2022 Gen Z and Millenial Survey.”2022. Deloitte.
