A field trip to the local train depot for some great team bonding time.
Summer Sunshine and Team Spirit: 3 Benefits of Hybrid Office Gatherings
As summer winds down, we take a moment to reflect on the experiences we've shared as a team. Much like opening a window to welcome fresh air, our in-person gatherings have brought a renewed sense of warmth and connection. These moments break the routine of virtual meetings, revitalizing our hybrid work environment and reminding us of the dynamic, vibrant team we truly are.
The Benefits of Hybrid Office Gatherings
Strengthening Relationships:
In-person interactions, from casual conversations to spontaneous connections, strengthen our bonds in ways that virtual meetings can't. These moments remind us that we’re more than just colleagues—we’re a team.
Boosting Morale and Creativity:
Being together in the same space boosts morale and sparks creativity. The energy and enthusiasm of face-to-face interactions fuel new ideas and drive innovation.
Building a Stronger Team Culture:
Hybrid gatherings are key to maintaining a strong team culture. They reinforce our connection to the company’s mission and to each other, fostering a sense of belonging that's hard to achieve virtually.
Summer Get-Togethers: Highlights from Our Team
This summer, our team made the most of the season with some memorable get-togethers that perfectly captured the spirit of collaboration and fun.
Circle G Farms Visit:
Our first stop was at a local farm. We joined a customer there to showcase the real-life application of an app we developed. For a couple of our developers, it was their first time on a farm. The visit included an interview with one of the major stakeholders of the farm, giving us invaluable insights into how our work is making a tangible difference in the agricultural sector.
Train Depot Adventure:
Another highlight was our field trip to the city’s train depot, where we had the chance to tour the historic Twin Cities Zephyrs. As we explored the vintage cars and learned about the rich history of the trains, it was easy to see the parallels between the past’s innovative spirit and our own work today.
Cookouts and Lunches:
Of course, no summer would be complete without some delicious food and good company. We took time out to feast together and celebrate various milestones within our team. We welcomed Andrew back to town—he moved to Arizona and now works remotely—and enjoyed the rare chance to catch up in person. Michelle and Lisa, who also work remotely, also joined. We also celebrated Edgar’s accomplishments at bootcamp and wished him well as he transfers to a new university.
Conclusion
As the summer days continue to shine, there's no better time to gather your team, share some laughs, and strengthen the bonds that make our hybrid office thrive. Whether it’s a casual BBQ, or simply exploring new places together, these moments are what turn colleagues into friends and ideas into action.