As a manager and now business owner, I’ve always believed that a strong team is the backbone of any successful business or corporate organisation. One of the best ways to build the team is by getting the team out and about and combining an event that incorporates a sense of purpose and giving back Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with socialising.
It’s not just about giving back; it’s about creating a work environment where our employees thrive and can learn new things about each other. So, let’s talk about why this is such a fantastic idea and the benefits it brings to the table.
At first glance, these two concepts might seem worlds apart, but they actually complement each other beautifully. When your team comes together for a common cause outside the usual work setting, it’s amazing how quickly they bond. Whether they’re painting a school, cleaning a beach, or participating in a charity run, these shared experiences create lasting connections. It’s not just about colleagues; it’s about building genuine friendships. Participating in CSR activities gives your team a sense of purpose. Knowing that their work extends beyond the confines of our office, and that they’re making a positive impact on the community, can boost their morale and job satisfaction.
Working together outside the workplace often involves problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills. These skills are honed through real-life experiences and are highly transferable back to the office. A company that’s socially responsible and values its employees’ well-being is more attractive to potential hires. Plus, when employees feel a strong sense of belonging, they’re more likely to stick around. It gives employees another perspective about you as the manager or business owner too – e.g. it’s not just about, making a profit.
The Benefits of taking a few hours out of work can really help you as a business and give your people a bit of break from work which can also have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing. Not to mention that employees will feel proud of the positive impact they’re making on the world, it’s a major boost to their overall well-being. Happy employees are productive employees. Let’s not forget the positive PR that comes with socially responsible initiatives. A company that gives back to the community is not only admirable but can also attract more customers.
You’ll find that if your employees are happy, your customers will notice! Plus, customers love to support businesses that are committed to making the world a better place. Aligning your CSR initiatives with your brand values can strengthen customer loyalty.
It’s a good idea to involve your employees in choosing CSR activities. Let them have a say in the causes and initiatives that matter most to them. Make CSR/teambuilding/socials become a regular part of your work culture, not just a one-off event. The more consistent you are, the stronger the positive impact.
However, you should make sure that employees have the necessary resources and time they need to take part and that there isn’t a negative impact back in the business – otherwise people will not take part.
Make sure that you take the time recognise and celebrate the efforts and achievements of your team. Public recognition and appreciation can go a long way – for everyone.
Sometimes just getting out and about together, even when not planned can make a huge difference. Recently our team attended a local business exhibition. We weren’t going to go – worrying about time out of the business etc. Anyway, we made the effort and were out of the office for two hours. We explored the market for our own business, picked up some new business, found ideas for what we may do for CSR and had a giggle, loads of freebies and chocolate too! We were all buzzing with ideas when we got back.
Combining CSR with teambuilding can create a win-win situation. Your employees benefit personally and professionally, while your business reaps the rewards of a happier, more unified team. So, get out there, have fun, and make a difference!
Remember, our strapline at Centric is, “Happy People – Healthy Business”, it’s not just a job; it’s a journey, and together, we can make it an incredible one.
For more information on this subject and any other HR issues please contact our team here.
