Retreat Themes >
Introduction
Make your Theme Work by Merging a Serious Business Agenda with Clever Wording and a Light-hearted Tone.
Introduction
Though the idea of a “theme” can conjure up many different visions, a well-chosen and creatively executed theme can not only enhance but also organize a retreat. The most important point to remember, however, is that at the core of every theme—no matter how simple—must be a true business objective. Bringing together the firm’s goals and ideas under one umbrella works as internal marketing—inspiring, explaining and motivating partners, associates and staff.
Once the theme is developed, brainstorm ways to link that idea back to the core business objectives in a variety of ways. Those ideas can act as a blueprint to not only keep you on track to the ultimate goal but to remind you to tie the theme into every aspect of retreat planning.
Creating a Theme
Think of the Retreat as you would the firm’s corporate identity … you want to concentrate on differentiation and repetition. What makes this Retreat different? Review the Retreat’s already established objectives and goals. Ask yourself what makes this Retreat special? It can be as celebratory as a firm 10-year anniversary, or as simple as taking place on a cruise, at a golf resort or in a tropical setting but once again, should always relate back to a business goal or objective. Thinking about the Retreat in this way will help you define its theme and ultimately, plan a Retreat that stands apart from all the others.
When choosing a theme first decide what issues you need to address as well as the overall mood. If the retreat is for partners only and hopes to concentrate on tackling serious issues, the theme may revolve around operational issues or new business development. If the retreat serves to connect multiple offices and inspire camaraderie and team building the theme may be lighter and less business-oriented. Whatever the theme, remember to be sure it has a connection back to the retreat’s ultimate goal and commit to threading that idea throughout each phase of the time spent together.
Creating Strong Materials
After you have determined your objectives and developed the agenda, you can begin to think about the materials and promotional items needed for the event. First, create a retreat logo or slogan to help tie all the pieces together. Presentation materials and promotional items branded with the retreat logo or slogan help in creating enthusiasm among the Retreat’s participants and in strengthening the message and objectives of the event.
Also consider that the success of the event will be greater if you add a little fun. Implement a theme that reflects the Retreat’s defined objectives. Create a buzz around the event by planning a teaser campaign before the Retreat - use e-mail or small gifts to create excitement among the participants. Once they have arrived at the retreat welcome them with a gift package inspired by your theme— anything from a golf shirt and customized golf balls with the firm’s logo to a bound leather notebook to organize contacts and potential clients. Keep the theme going throughout all the events, whether they revolve around serious discussion and brainstorming or team building and downtime. Remember that the items and materials serve to both hold content and create a visual memory of the experience.
Conclusion
With your theme in hand…repetition, repetition, repetition is key. Place your theme on all the Retreat materials, including handouts, awards and promotional items. The repetition will reinforce the Retreat’s message and highlight the issues discussed.
