Communication has come a long way from letter writing, the phone, and face to face interaction. Now we are able to conduct business through email, instant messaging, video chats, and use programs like go to meeting to interact with coworkers or clients. All this communication is done from the comfort of our office. The tools that have become available to us in recent years have made it easier for everyone to stay connected and communicate faster than ever before. But are we isolating ourselves by not seeking out social interaction with our coworkers?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics American 2011 Time Use Survey the average person who is employed works 8.8 hours a day.That means on average a person is working 44 hours a 5 day week communicating with your coworkers. Whether you work in an office or out of your home, chances are that the only time you spend with your coworkers is when you need to communicate with them. Do you really know the people you see every day for 8.8 hours a day and conduct business with?
Have you thought of yourself as being a part of a corporate community? You are, why not embrace your and empower your community!
Here are some ideas for connecting with your coworkers and feature your corporate community for your clients to see.
Gym Night- Host a weekly workout session at a local gym. You can get to know your coworkers on the treadmill or during a water break in between workout classes. Great way to get away from the boring ice breakers and burn some calories too!
Catered Lunch/ Pot Luck- Pick a day a week and have the offices’ lunch catered where everyone can sit down and enjoy a good meal. You’re not taking away from work because everyone needs to have lunch. Or you can have everyone bring in a dish to share for lunch. Giving you the opportunity to try a new food and learn a delicious recipe to treat your family.
Charity- Once a month your company could donate you time to doing charity work and or gaining sponsors for a walkathon. This would be a great way to bring awareness to the charity and to promote your company. If your opting for a walkathon this would also be another great way to help out a charity and feature you company and brand on the participates shirts along with sponsors. If you have a food or beverage product this would be an ideal way to have people try your samples and buy your product.
Building up your corporate community can be a great way to empower yourself and your coworkers through just getting to know them. You can even build your brand by featuring your community environment on your site, who doesn’t want to be a part of a caring community?
Does your company already participate in similar activities? What are your thoughts on corporate community?
