Transform Your Annual Team Retreat

Source: Accounting Today

In this article, L. Gary Boomer gives ideas on how to turn your yearly retreat into a meaningful gathering that builds your team and produces results. Here are a few of his ideas:

• Meet offsite, and in a different town if possible. If costs are prohibitive, consider waiting for the off season to get better rates.
• Invite non-team members to be involved. A respected client or other outside colleague will offer a fresh perspective.
• Don't try to run your own meeting. Bring in a leader who can facilitate your discussion and help you stay focused on the big picture.
• Remember to celebrate successes before tackling the challenges.
• Stick to a schedule and an agenda. (Participants should have agenda prior to the meeting so they can be prepared to discuss.)
• Include social activities to allow participants time to relax and connect.
• Keep careful notes to ensure follow-up and completion of tasks assigned.
• Allow for feedback on the effectiveness of the meeting before wrapping up.
• If planning this type of event isn't your strength, recruit help.

For the complete article, read “The firm summit: Making good things happen.”

From Accounting Today, November 15, 2010, SourceMedia Inc., One State Street Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10004, 800-221-1809.