Today, New LifeStyles will shut down shortly afternoon and take in some Ranger baseball for our spring outing (unless heavy storms wreak havoc on the Metroplex).  The last few years we have had picnics, with extremely competitive kickball, saltine eating contests and grilled delicacies.  As a company, we try to have some type of social/fun activity every three months or so including Labor Day Bowling and the Holiday Party. 

As a management team, we all feel it is important to do fun things as a company and see each other in a different environment.  As a smaller company (around 30 people), we are able to choose activities that will appeal to most employees and also allow employees to have input.  This helps ensure that people will want to participate and not feel forced into things.

Are there downsides to non-business company functions?  Sure.  People can have a little too much to drink and cause problems or offend other employees.  People can get a little relaxed, not understanding it’s still a company function and not treat fellow employees with respect.

But, overall, I feel the company outing or function can help people get to know others, build friendships and benefit both the employees’ job quality and the overall company morale.

What activities and functions does your company have?  How is participation?  Are there dissenters?

Would love to get your input, cheers, Doug

Follow-up pics : ) Postponed due to rain after 4 fun innings… You never know with Spring outings… Go Rangers!