Boosting a remote team’s wellbeing through adventure

The pandemic forced companies to rethink the classic 9-5 job, the solution was to get the workforce working remotely. But with their employees now spread all over the world, how can companies bring their people together?

Company offsites are gaining in popularity and it’s easy to see why. Team building in an increasingly remote-working world, is integral to uniting a workforce. Many people would picture this looking like the old-school ‘forced-fun’ activities, such as blindfolded trust exercises and obstacle courses. However, a company offsite trip, with a focus on adventure, has a very different (much cooler) vibe…

From coasteering in crystal clear waters, to catching your first surf together, the sense of achievement triggers a feeling of camaraderie, especially when you’re cheering each other on and encouraging someone to take that leap of faith. By taking part in adventure activities together, people make lasting memories, it’s a great talking point in future conversations. And if everyone is enjoying themselves, getting to know each other, and having a laugh during a joint experience, this creates an instant bond too…

It’s just science really…

Endorphins are part of our pain and pleasure circuitry - they're our body's natural painkillers and also give us feelings of pleasure. Previous studies have suggested that endorphins promote social bonding in both humans and other animals - University of Oxford Researchers

By building a connection through adventure, the group will naturally unite. They will get to know each other quickly, as adrenaline boosting activities will take them out of their comfort zone, getting people talking more openly and freely. This can help improve communication and collaboration on future work projects. Plus, you’re giving your team the opportunity to do something amazing and cool, which they may never have had the chance to do otherwise.

It’s also a way of expressing to the team how you have their best interest at heart, and making them feel valued as employees. Investing in activities which help boost mental and physical wellbeing, shows that you value them as individuals, therefore giving the whole team a big morale boost. A valued workforce is a happy workforce.

Don’t just take our word for it…

Big Blue Adventures organised our company's first offsite trip to Madeira and it was awesome! Everything was well planned, from the activities and tours, to the lunches/dinners. We had the most amazing time and through the activities we got to know each other and share lovely memories and experiences - Sissy, Unitary

Want to find out more about the value of team training and building a corporate culture? Big Blue’s Dan caught up with wellbeing specialist Ffion Jones about how adventure can play a big part in creating a strong team bond.