The typical office environment can sometimes feel restrictive and make it difficult to get to know your colleagues. While we strive to collaborate and connect every day, the professional setting can get in the way of team bonding.
We often think of team building as an awkward thing that nobody really wants to do, but strong morale can be achieved with a simple change of scenery. A trip to a new country can break down barriers and reveal new sides of the people we work with.
Your team can travel to a European country and share laughs while you explore some exciting new places. These shared experiences away from the pressure of the office can create a foundation of trust, as you get to know your colleagues better than ever before.
You can step outside of their comfort zones and into a new culture, your employees will forge stronger relationships that can translate into an improved office environment.
Continue reading to find out more about the team boosting morale a European vacation with your colleagues can give you. It can be the best chance of improving the office culture.
Colleague European Vacation Benefits
Builds Stronger Connections
Shared experiences in a new environment are a proven way to strengthen bonds between team members. When colleagues are away from their desks and facing new challenges together, they can forge deeper connections and build trust.
This translates to better collaboration and communication when it’s time to go back to the office. Exploring a historic city like Rome or Krakow with a fun scavenger hunt can be a good way of encouraging teamwork.
Increases Motivation
Going to a European country with your colleagues is a memorable experience that can be more impactful to long-term employee happiness than a monetary bonus. It makes employees feel their hard work is valued and appreciated, leading to increased loyalty and motivation.
The anticipation of a trip can also serve as a powerful motivator for employees to exceed their targets.
Boosts Creativity
The beauty and history of European cities like Madrid and Athens can be great for channeling your creativity, as they are home to some ancient marvels. A change of environment can also help reduce stress and prevent burnout, so employees can return to work feeling refreshed, energised and ready to tackle new projects. If you’re in a creative industry, getting away with your colleagues could be just what you need.
Enhances Brand Image
A well-planned and thoughtful corporate trip reinforces a positive company culture and it shows that the organisation is committed to its employees’ satisfaction and happiness. You can post images and videos from your trip on Instagram and TikTok to give potential customers or clients an insight into the team.
Key Considerations
You should plan ahead and think about every part of the trip before you go away with your colleagues, as the smoother it all goes the better the results will be. It’s important to keep in mind the following points:
- Define clear objectives: Know what you’re going to be doing and think about how it can improve team morale and performance.
- Understand employee preferences: Make sure the activities and destinations are what your team would find most motivating and enjoyable. Think about the foodies in your team, as well as those seeking adventure.
- Balance work and leisure: Allow for downtime so employees can relax without having to be burdened with work. If they do need to work on their travels, try to keep it to a minimum.
- Prioritise wellbeing: Offer support tools and flexible schedules to help employees feel refreshed during the getaway.
- Budgeting: Your trip away needs to be affordable for your business. If you rely heavily on customer payments, you could get credit insurance to help with any missed payments while your team is away.
Best European Countries to Visit for Colleagues
Spain
If you’re looking for a sun getaway, there’s no better country than Spain. There are so many beautiful cities that are positioned next to some of the most wonderful beaches in the world.
Barcelona, Valencia and Malaga are all great locations on mainland Spain that are very popular with tourists, especially business travelers who are planning a trip with colleagues. You could even go to Palma Nova, Mallorca and enjoy Fantasia Golf or the Western Waterpark.
Italy
The captivating blend of rich history, world-renowned cuisine and must-see landmarks makes Italy a classic choice for a memorable team trip. Tuscany and Rome are some very pleasant places to visit with your colleagues, combining sophistication and fun.
For teams seeking a mix of business and pleasure, Milan provides the perfect retreat. Each region offers a unique way for colleagues to connect and create lasting memories outside the office.
Montenegro
Montenegro is an exceptional choice for a corporate trip, as it gives you stunning natural beauty, history and a vibrant atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of more traditional Western European destinations.
The Old Town of Budva has a charming square that can be a great location for local dining enthusiasts and beach lovers.
Final Thoughts
Getting away from the office allows everyone to connect on a more personal level, which can result in better team work when they go back. Exploring new places and facing new adventures together builds trust that’s better for collaboration. You should choose your location carefully so that it suits everyone in your team, as you want to keep everyone happy.
