The Friend Zone – How you can encourage work based friendships and why it’s good for your business.
The latest labour force survey by the Central Statistics Office shows that a record number of people were employed in the first quarter of 2019; positive news. However; it does pose some issues for employers looking to attract and retain talent. Those responsible for staff are having to find ways to keep employees engaged, and perhaps one way is to help your staff get to know one another a bit better.
Latest research carried out by jobs.ie found that workplace friendships had a number of positive effects for both the employee and the employer, so cultivating a culture of cooperation and friendship not only makes a nicer environment for staff but also makes business sense.
“It makes sense that if people are working together, having a closer understanding and empathy can help at times when staff need to come together to deliver deadlines or when a crisis happens” Kathy Purcell, Manager at Castlecomer Discovery Park.
The data from 2,770 respondents indicated that more than half of Irish workers say workplace friendships positively impact on their productivity.
Another interesting insight is that according to research by Jobs.ie, 79% of workers would like to see their employer do more to encourage workplace friendships. At Castlecomer Discovery Park we make it easy for employers to arrange activities to encourage developing friendships and greater cooperation.
One of the best ways to encourage communication and cooperation in workplaces is by engaging in in an outdoor team building activity, especially one that puts people outside of their comfort zone.
Our programmes enhance communication, coordination and problem solving, encourage team work, planning, physical and strategic thinking.
It’s good news for employers also, with 36% of respondents indicating that having a good relationship with colleagues affects how they speak about their employer externally.
Some of our team building activities are:
Catapult Building
Team Challenge
High Ropes Courses
Archery
Axe Throwing
Raft Building
Orienteering
We also work with 8 time All Ireland Hurling Champion Michael Fennelly to deliver Leadership programmes that motivate and inspire. Michael is an expert facilitator and motivational speaker “There is a big difference between a satisfied employee and an engaged one. Engaged employees don’t just look at what their pay packet is at the end of the month, they care about the objectives of the company which fundamentally means better business outcomes” Michael Fennelly
Finally, 74% of those responding say it improves their general mood, and that’s always welcome particularly on a Monday morning!
To book your team building event at Castlecomer Discovery Park please contact info@discoverypark.ie or call 056 4440707
