If you've ever worked for a company where employees are truly embraced, you've most likely felt the significant difference this can make. A culture that thrives on positive relationships not only helps staff through hard times, but it also allows them to soar wherever opportunities arise. The recipe for success is by no means simple, but company activities play a key role in holding the team together, and in building a great company culture.
Over the past seven years, I’ve been convinced that the Activities Planning Committee is one of the coolest teams here at Cambridge. They plan everything from Chocolate Covered Strawberries at Valentine's Day to the Christmas Brunch in December, and everything in between (including, just recently, the Fall Festival). While my personal strengths are not in this area, I have come to appreciate the significant impact this team has on the overall Cambridge culture. Some of the reasons I believe company activities are impactful:
Company Activities Encourage Relationships
Everything is accomplished through people, and more specifically, relationships. The stronger the relationships are internally, the stronger our external relationships with clients and partners. The bonding that occurs outside the corporate setting plays a major role in getting to know one another on a personal level. And as it allows employees to see one another as more than just coworkers, it helps resolve conflict as well. Whether it's by playing basketball, throwing washers, or going on a hayride, taking time outside the confines of the standard workday can strengthen relationships.
Company Activity Planning Encourages Teamwork
Not only do company activities benefit the employees and families who participate, but they are also a great way to build teamwork. When the group plans and executes the event, each individual has the chance to take on a leadership role, and to contribute to the team.
What the Family Thinks Matters
Activities that include employees’ families have proven a great addition to the Cambridge culture. The core belief that we are strengthening the family, and not just the individual, is a central part of this involvement. When things get tough, the family functions as part of the team, and consequently supports the employee through the challenge.
Company Culture
Activities are material ways in which to reinforce that the company cares. Saying you care is not enough; you have to demonstrate your dedication. Cambridge has incorporated Care into its core values, supporting activities both with both time and money is a way to promote this core value. When employees share how they feel about their work with their friends, they can point to these demonstrations of care, and feel proud to be a part of the organization. Company Activities are a major part of solid company cultures in that they help build relationships, encourage teamwork, strengthen families, and demonstrate that the company cares for its people. These activities are well worth the investment. Question: What is your favorite company activity?