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<p>Planning an effective offsite can be a game-changer for any organization. Executive assistants and chiefs of staff play a crucial role in making these events successful. Here are some tips to help you maximize the impact of your next offsite.</p><h2>Understand the Objectives</h2><p>Before you start planning, it's important to understand the goals of the offsite. Are you focusing on team building, strategic planning, or problem-solving? Knowing the objectives will help you tailor the event to meet specific needs.</p><p>Discuss the goals with key stakeholders. This will ensure everyone is on the same page and the event aligns with the company's overall strategy.</p><figure id="figure-czn1l030lwwlwm9yjka"><img id="czn1l030lwwlwm9yjka" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1603201667230-bd139210db18?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyM3x8YnVzaW5lc3MlMjBtZWV0aW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcxNjY1MTQ2NHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="business meeting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1603201667230-bd139210db18?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyM3x8YnVzaW5lc3MlMjBtZWV0aW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcxNjY1MTQ2NHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Choose the Right Venue</h3><p>A good venue will provide a comfortable setting that fosters creativity and collaboration. Make sure it has the necessary facilities for your planned activities. The right environment can enhance the overall experience and contribute to the success of the event.</p><figure id="figure-uqn3p29lcflwmadayv"><img id="uqn3p29lcflwmadayv" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366811353-6870744d04b2?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8bWVldGluZyUyMHJvb218ZW58MHx8fHwxNzE2NjUyMjAzfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="photo of dining table and chairs inside room" title="photo of dining table and chairs inside room" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366811353-6870744d04b2?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8bWVldGluZyUyMHJvb218ZW58MHx8fHwxNzE2NjUyMjAzfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Plan the Logistics and Accessibility</h3><p>Ensure the venue is easy to reach. This reduces travel stress and maximizes the time spent on productive activities. Check for nearby accommodations if the event spans multiple days. Accessibility is crucial for ensuring all participants can attend without hassle.</p><p><img id="3goyevvgf5lwm9ykyh" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1570126646281-5ec88111777f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxjb25mZXJlbmNlJTIwcm9vbXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTY2NTE0NjZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="conference room" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1570126646281-5ec88111777f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxjb25mZXJlbmNlJTIwcm9vbXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTY2NTE0NjZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></p><h3>Design Engaging Activities</h3><p>Plan a variety of activities to keep participants engaged. Workshops, brainstorming sessions, and team-building exercises can be very effective. Engaging professional facilitators can also be beneficial. They can help guide discussions and keep the event on track.</p><figure id="figure-nm6q2wuxp6lwmai9sx"><img id="nm6q2wuxp6lwmai9sx" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1542744173-8e7e53415bb0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8QnVzaW5lc3MlMjBDb25zdWx0aW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjgyMzA4Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="man standing in front of people sitting beside table with laptop computers" title="man standing in front of people sitting beside table with laptop computers" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1542744173-8e7e53415bb0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8QnVzaW5lc3MlMjBDb25zdWx0aW5nfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjgyMzA4Nnww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Include Breaks</h3><p>Don't forget to schedule breaks. These are essential for maintaining energy levels and allowing informal interactions. Breaks can often lead to spontaneous ideas and stronger team bonds. Ensure there is a balance between work sessions and downtime.</p><figure id="figure-kalfae8i9ohlwm9ymdn"><img id="kalfae8i9ohlwm9ymdn" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1495837174058-628aafc7d610?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxncm91cCUyMGFjdGl2aXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcxNjY1MTQ2OHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="group activity" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1495837174058-628aafc7d610?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxncm91cCUyMGFjdGl2aXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTcxNjY1MTQ2OHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Communicate Clearly</h3><p>Share the agenda with participants ahead of time. This helps everyone come prepared and sets clear expectations. Clear communication ensures that everyone knows what to expect and can contribute effectively.</p><figure id="figure-ysx5cjc1plwmaild1"><img id="ysx5cjc1plwmaild1" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1499750310107-5fef28a66643?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw3Mnx8Y29tbXVuaWNhdGluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTY2NTI0NjB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="MacBook Pro, white ceramic mug,and black smartphone on table" title="MacBook Pro, white ceramic mug,and black smartphone on table" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1499750310107-5fef28a66643?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw3Mnx8Y29tbXVuaWNhdGluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTY2NTI0NjB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Coordinate with Vendors and Service Providers</h3><p>Coordinate with vendors and service providers well in advance. This ensures everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. Having reliable partners can make a significant difference in the execution of your offsite.</p><figure id="figure-78qthrchjlwmakeq8"><img id="78qthrchjlwmakeq8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2a285eMYDyND7kRdpfHUdvJaulOs05tujEcriWDuDNsYKdwv1cEZvewqFvKCNqSF.jpeg" alt="Engineer working at a blueprint of house in office for discussing real estate project. Engineering tools and construction concept." title="Engineer working at a blueprint of house in office for discussing real estate project. Engineering tools and construction concept." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2a285eMYDyND7kRdpfHUdvJaulOs05tujEcriWDuDNsYKdwv1cEZvewqFvKCNqSF.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Collect Feedback and Follow-Up</h3><p>Collect feedback from participants after the offsite. This will help you understand what worked and what didn't. Use this information to improve future events. Follow up on action items and decisions made during the offsite. This ensures the event has a lasting impact and drives real change.</p><figure id="figure-lv1tdzpouplwman4ld"><img id="lv1tdzpouplwman4ld" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1cW4U8H8vh8coroYz2xCq3pHuevGz4WV9BY9S8ftXfMQkX5VLkhTMZbkqg92yhzZ.jpeg" alt="Let's do this written under torn paper" title="Let's do this written under torn paper" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>By following these tips, executive assistants and chiefs of staff can plan offsites that are not only effective but also memorable. A well-executed offsite can significantly contribute to the organization's success, fostering better teamwork, clearer strategies, and stronger bonds among team members.</p>

Tips for Executive Assistants and Chiefs of Staff on Planning Effective Offsites

MacBook Pro, white ceramic mug,and black smartphone on table

<h2>Introduction</h2><p>Charged with planning and organizing the offsite for your team? Offsites provide a great opportunity for team building, strategy discussions, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among your staff. However, creating a successful offsite requires careful planning and execution. In this blog post, we'll discuss key considerations and steps to take when organizing an offsite event.</p><h2>Setting Objectives</h2><p>Before diving into the logistics of planning an offsite, it is crucial to define clear objectives for the event. What do you hope to achieve? Are you looking to improve team communication, brainstorm new ideas, or align on strategic goals? Setting specific objectives will help guide your planning process and ensure that the offsite is focused and productive.</p><h2>Creating an Agenda</h2><p>A thoughtfully created agenda is crtical for a successful offsite. Start by interviewing the team to get clear on what matters most. The outline the main topics or activities you want to cover based on what you heard and break them down into smaller sessions or workshops. Allow for flexibility to accommodate unexpected discussions or ideas that may arise during the event. Make sure to share the agenda with participants in advance so they can come prepared.</p><h2>Facilitating Engaging Sessions</h2><p>During the offsite, it's important to keep participants engaged and actively involved in the discussions. Consider incorporating interactive activities, breakout sessions, or team-building exercises to encourage collaboration and participation. Engaging sessions will not only enhance the overall experience but also foster stronger relationships among team members.</p><h2>Bringing in External Facilitators or Speakers</h2><p>Consider inviting external facilitators or speakers to add a fresh perspective to your offsite. These experts can be great thought partners in creating your offsite and can provide valuable insights on relevant topics. Their presence can help stimulate new ideas and inspire your team members.</p><h2>Encouraging Open Communication</h2><p>Creating an space for open communication is vital during an offsite. Encourage participants to share their perspectives freely. Foster a safe environment that helps everyone feel comfortable expressing themselves. This will lead to more meaningful discussions and enable your team to address any challenges or conflicts that may arise.</p><h2>Evaluating and Following Up</h2><p>After the offsite, it's essential to evaluate its success and gather feedback from participants. Send out a survey or conduct a debrief session to gather insights on what worked well and areas for improvement. Use this feedback to refine your future offsite events and ensure continuous growth and development for your team.</p><h2>Implementing Actionable Takeaways</h2><p>Lastly, don't let the momentum from the offsite fade away. Identify actionable takeaways and create a plan to implement them. Assign responsibilities and set clear milestones to help ensure ideas discussed during the offsite are put into action. Regularly follow up on progress and provide support as needed.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Organizing an offsite can be a rewarding experience that brings your team closer together and drives meaningful outcomes. By setting clear objectives, facilitating engaging sessions, and following up with actionable steps, you can create an impactful offsite event that sets your team up for success.</p>

Owning the Offsite: From Start to Finish

<p>Facilitated conversations are a powerful tool for driving meaningful discussions and creating impactful outcomes. Whether it's in a professional setting, a community gathering, or a personal development workshop, the art of facilitation can transform the way people communicate and collaborate.</p><h3>The Role of a Facilitator</h3><p>A skilled facilitator plays a crucial role in guiding a conversation, ensuring that all voices are heard, and helping participants navigate through complex topics. They create a safe and inclusive environment where individuals can express their thoughts, share their experiences, and explore diverse perspectives.</p><figure id="figure-v0ntjok3olrs6hmnq"><img id="v0ntjok3olrs6hmnq" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1543269865-4430f94492b9?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8ZmFjaWxpdGF0ZWQlMjBjb252ZXJzYXRpb258ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2MTI0NTIyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="facilitated conversation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1543269865-4430f94492b9?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8ZmFjaWxpdGF0ZWQlMjBjb252ZXJzYXRpb258ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2MTI0NTIyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Active Listening and Empathy</h3><p>Central to a facilitated conversation is the practice of active listening and empathy. A facilitator encourages participants to listen deeply to one another, fostering understanding and compassion. By acknowledging and validating different viewpoints, the conversation becomes a catalyst for empathy and connection.</p><h3>Breaking Down Barriers</h3><p>Facilitated conversations have the power to break down barriers, whether they are cultural, social, or ideological. Through open dialogue and respectful communication, individuals can bridge gaps, challenge assumptions, and build bridges towards mutual understanding and collaboration.</p><figure id="figure-xpgf0kdzamlrs6hogg"><img id="xpgf0kdzamlrs6hogg" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1573496267526-08a69e46a409?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxkaXZlcnNlJTIwY29udmVyc2F0aW9ufGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjEyNDUyNHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="two women taking to each other while holding pens" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1573496267526-08a69e46a409?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxkaXZlcnNlJTIwY29udmVyc2F0aW9ufGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjEyNDUyNHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Problem Solving and Innovation</h3><p>When facilitated effectively, conversations can lead to innovative solutions and new perspectives on complex issues. By harnessing the collective intelligence of a group, a facilitator can guide participants towards creative problem-solving and strategic thinking.</p><h3>Building Trust and Relationships</h3><p>Facilitated conversations contribute to the building of trust and relationships among participants. By creating an environment of openness and respect, individuals can form deeper connections, which can lead to stronger teamwork, partnerships, and community cohesion.</p><figure id="figure-fi3uucoqhmlrs6hq1h"><img id="fi3uucoqhmlrs6hq1h" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1512531123205-560f5974e686?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMXx8YSUyMHJpdmVyJTIwcnVubmluZyUyMHRocm91Z2glMjBhJTIwY2l0eSUyMG5leHQlMjB0byUyMHRhbGwlMjBidWlsZGluZ3N8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2MTIyNTk5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="city buildings during sunset" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1512531123205-560f5974e686?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMXx8YSUyMHJpdmVyJTIwcnVubmluZyUyMHRocm91Z2glMjBhJTIwY2l0eSUyMG5leHQlMjB0byUyMHRhbGwlMjBidWlsZGluZ3N8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2MTIyNTk5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Enhancing Decision Making</h3><p>Through facilitated conversations, groups can make more informed and inclusive decisions. By considering diverse viewpoints and engaging in constructive dialogue, participants can arrive at well-rounded conclusions that take into account the needs and perspectives of all involved.</p><h3>Personal Growth and Development</h3><p>On a personal level, facilitated conversations can be transformative, providing individuals with opportunities for self-reflection, learning, and growth. By engaging in meaningful discussions, participants can gain new insights, challenge their assumptions, and expand their perspectives.</p><figure id="figure-zc0coe99xlrs6hrte"><img id="zc0coe99xlrs6hrte" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1457530378978-8bac673b8062?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8cGVyc29uYWwlMjBncm93dGh8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2MTIxMzcyfDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="green plants on soil" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null"/></figure><p>Facilitated conversations are not just about talking – they are about truly listening, understanding, and connecting with others. The impact of a well-facilitated conversation can be profound, leading to positive change, strengthened relationships, and a deeper sense of community and belonging.</p>

The Power of a Facilitated Conversation

<p>When you get together to focus on things other than the day-to-day, you create an opportunity for making updates to HOW you work. Here is how to build transformational offsite programming:</p><h3><strong>Step 1, before the offsite</strong></h3><p>Learn what is top of mind for folks (this could be the challenges associated with an ongoing project, reviewing what worked during a client engagement, general items you don't often discuss but need attention, etc.)</p><p>Create an agenda with sessions focused on the topics that matter to your team</p><p>Get agreement on the agenda</p><figure id="figure-yrkta3frulrs6rkbg"><img id="yrkta3frulrs6rkbg" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1696777406868-5258913ef41d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwzfHxiYWNvbiUyMHN0cmlwcyUyMGFuZCUyMG1lbHRlZCUyMGNoZWVzZSUyMHRvcHBlZCUyMGZyaWVzJTIwb24lMjBvdmFsJTIwd2hpdGUlMjBhbmQlMjBibHVlJTIwcGxhdHRlciUyMHdpdGglMjBncmF5JTIwc3RhaW5sZXNzJTIwc3RlZWwlMjBmb3Jrc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDYxMjUwNTl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="an island in the middle of the ocean on a foggy day" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1696777406868-5258913ef41d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwzfHxiYWNvbiUyMHN0cmlwcyUyMGFuZCUyMG1lbHRlZCUyMGNoZWVzZSUyMHRvcHBlZCUyMGZyaWVzJTIwb24lMjBvdmFsJTIwd2hpdGUlMjBhbmQlMjBibHVlJTIwcGxhdHRlciUyMHdpdGglMjBncmF5JTIwc3RhaW5sZXNzJTIwc3RlZWwlMjBmb3Jrc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDYxMjUwNTl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><h3><strong>Step 2, during the offsite</strong></h3><p>Create a comfortable and safe space for folks to discuss agenda items</p><p>Remind people why you are there - to effectively address topics that matter to the team</p><p>Work through each topic for about 1 to 2 hours, holding space for discussion, exploration, and action planning next steps</p><p>Hold a final session to discuss how each topic fits into the larger whole of the team and integrate action plans to reduce overlap and develop a broader "go forward" plan</p><figure id="figure-9pllfy2jqlrs6tgfa"><img id="9pllfy2jqlrs6tgfa" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1426024120108-99cc76989c71?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMXx8bGFwdG9wJTIwY29tcHV0ZXIlMjBvbiUyMGdsYXNzLXRvcCUyMHRhYmxlfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjEyNTE2MHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="turned on silver iMac" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1426024120108-99cc76989c71?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMXx8bGFwdG9wJTIwY29tcHV0ZXIlMjBvbiUyMGdsYXNzLXRvcCUyMHRhYmxlfGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjEyNTE2MHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><p><br></p><h3><strong>Step 3, after the offsite</strong></h3><p>Implement actions determined during the offsite</p><p>Keep track of how things are going between offsites</p><p>Leverage offsite practices to keep the conversation going</p><p>Have folks keep all of the above in mind when considering topics for the next offsite</p><p>Repeat steps 1 through 3. </p><p>Through practice, offsites can become your vehicle for change.</p><figure id="figure-jw0od5wuzelrs6vk6v"><img id="jw0od5wuzelrs6vk6v" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1546099047-f6d7ad3bfba1?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMXx8YSUyMGNsb3NlJTIwdXAlMjBvZiUyMGElMjB3b29kZW4lMjB3YWxsJTIwd2l0aCUyMGElMjBsaWdodCUyMHNoaW5pbmclMjBvbiUyMGl0fGVufDB8fHx8MTcwNjEyNTE4Nnww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="man standing near tree" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined"/></figure><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p>

3 Steps to Creating a Strategic Offsite

people sitting on chair in front of table while holding pens during daytime

<p>Looking for ways to kickstart program planning for your upcoming offsite? Here are 5 tips for offsite success that will have your team working on what matters most!&nbsp;<br></p><h3>Unearth Your Pain Points</h3><p>Begin your journey by delving into the heart of your team's challenges. Start with what you know, then expand your horizons to confirm what truly holds significance<br></p><h3>Harness Employee Insights</h3><p>Dive into the treasure trove of information gathered from your team. Whether it's gleaned from recent surveys, the notes of all-hands meetings, or the echoes of recent listening sessions, this data can help validate (or refute) your perspective<br></p><h3>Listen to Your Team</h3><p>After deciphering your own perspective and sifting through employee data, it's time to tune in to the voices of those who'll be navigating your program. Understand their thoughts, priorities, and curate your offsite agenda accordingly<br></p><h3>Foster Growth</h3><p>What good are insights into pain points and top priorities if they're not acted upon? Craft your programming to encourage curiosity and inspire change. This approach will stimulate engaging conversations and create opportunities for constructive transformation in your team dynamics.<br></p><h3>Embrace Co-Creation</h3><p>By following the above steps, your program will become a product of co-creation. The offsite activities and subsequent actions post-offsite should provide room for individuals to contribute meaningfully. Empower your team to take ownership of the problem and its solution, setting the stage for motivated action.<br><br>Deciding how to make the most of your offsite time can be challenging, but these five tips will ignite your creativity and set the stage for meaningful progress.</p>

Blog

Tips for Executive Assistants and Chiefs of Staff on Plan...

Owning the Offsite: From Start to Finish

The Power of a Facilitated Conversation

3 Steps to Creating a Strategic Offsite

5 Tips For Offsite Success