Employee Retreat Planning: Do It Yourself (DIY) or Not?

Are you thinking about doing a retreat for your team?

Before you jump in, let's talk strategy. 

There's a pivotal decision: to take the reins yourself or bring in an expert facilitator. 

Today, we're delving deep into when you should do it yourself or work with an expert because the choice isn’t always clear. 

Here are 5 instances when taking the DIY route can bring great results.

Tight Budget 🤑

Got limited resources? Doing it yourself might be the way to go. With careful research and resourcefulness, you can create a retreat that's meaningful without breaking the bank. Can you craft a budget-friendly retreat that will be good and not a waste of time?

Internal Knowledge 🧠

Nobody understands your team like you do. If your retreat goals are straightforward and well-aligned with your team's needs, your internal knowledge can help you design a targeted agenda. Planning the retreat yourself isn't just about logistics; it's about orchestrating an environment where people bond. Can you create a safe space where your team can mend and rebuild?

In-House Creative Talent 💡

Do you have team members skilled in retreat planning, team-building, or workshop facilitation? Do they have a bunch of creative ideas? If so, leverage their expertise to create a retreat that resonates with your team's dynamics. Can your in-house talents rise to the challenge and do their jobs?

Time is On Your Side ⏳

Do you have the luxury of time? If your schedule permits, you can immerse yourself in the planning process, ensuring each detail aligns perfectly with your team's needs. Can you dedicate the necessary time to plan thoroughly and manage your team?

If your answer is yes to all or most of these? Then you should consider doing it yourself and save your money.

If your answer is no or maybe to any of those questions then keep reading.

You may want to consider working with an expert if any of the below might be true for your team.

Complex Dynamics 🧩

If your team's dynamics are intricate, hiring an expert facilitator can navigate potential challenges and conflicts with finesse, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere. Are there underlying dynamics that an expert could help address?  In the aftermath of conflicts or recent organizational shifts, your team might be in need of healing and unity.

Skill Enhancement 🧑 🏫

Seeking significant skill development? An expert can design targeted workshops and activities, ensuring your team leaves the retreat with new capabilities and actionable takeaways.

Strategic Objectives 🎯

When your retreat aligns with high-stakes strategic objectives, an expert can help create a clear roadmap, ensuring every moment contributes to your long-term goals. Is your retreat a pivotal step towards a strategic vision?

External Perspective 🕵️ ♀️

Sometimes, you need a fresh set of eyes. An expert brings an outsider's perspective, identifying opportunities and areas for growth that you might not have noticed. Are there blind spots an expert could uncover?

Remember, it's not always a binary choice. 

Choosing whether to collaborate with an expert isn't just about what you can't do, but about leveraging what they can do to enhance your retreat journey.

It's about co-creating an experience that marries their expertise with your vision.

Always wishing you the best,

Dr. Beckford

Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:

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