Team Building Tip: Company Picnics

Are you having trouble integrating new hires with the old employees? With summer heating up, why not take the opportunity to resurrect the venerable tradition of holding company picnic outings? As Maryann Hammers pointed out in a Workforce Management article, there are few things better at building company spirit and camaraderie than an old-fashioned picnic outing.

Although the benefits of such outings are not measurable, many companies swear by them. Indeed, Robert Smith of Robert Smith & Associates PR, adamantly refuse to ever cancel company picnics. "My biggest business advantage is my people, and the more I build a great environment, the better job they will do," says Smith. "If my workers are happy, it carries over when they deal with clients, prospects and each other--and I make more money."

Some companies take this ritual very seriously and spare no expenses to make their employees happy. For example, New Jersey law firm, McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, even sprung for a ferris wheel and petting zoo at one of their picnics. However, such elaborate stunts are not necessary for a successful company event. Just don't forget the games and party favors.

Beyond the morale benefits and opportunities to bond and relax, these events are also great occasions to for employers to reward their workers with incentives and gifts. Give it a try and you may find that your employee doldrums are thing of the past.