One of the best way I know to build rapport on a team or to strengthen your personal and professional relationships is to get out of the office and “break bread” with others. An even better way to reward others is by taking them out to an event that allows everyone to totally escape the day-to-day activities of the office.
For me, “going on tour” this summer with The Goo Goo Dolls and Michelle Branch by taking business associates, friends and clients to a great night of music is going to be a great way to give back to those who mean the most to me. I’m taking some of my clients to the show in Saratoga Springs, and also treated some of my interns and business associates to a couple other shows in the Northeast.
Given the nature of the concert, there will be little or no talk about business; only enjoyment of great shows and great times. With the variety of locales that the concert series is playing, I am able to reach out to a variety of people without having to book meeting space, overnight accommodations, or have excessive overhead for these incentive events.
Next time you take a look at your incentive programs or meeting plans, see how you can work a concert into your meeting strategy. Many venues (like SPAC in Saratoga) offer convenient places to meet up and convenient offers for small to large groups.
