Employee Engagement and Safety: Filbrandt & Company Finds Balance For Annual Staff Outing

In the “Coronavirus Era,” it is increasingly difficult, but more important than ever to engage and develop employees.  With the onset of social distancing and safety precautions, many of the traditional methods of training and staff development are being reinvented out of necessity. 

Filbrandt & Company recently held its annual staff in-service and team-development outing.  The balance between team building, training, and safety were clearly evident during the event.  The training was held outdoors at Henry Vilas Park, a local staple in the Madison area.  A combination of social distancing, masks, careful planning, and an outdoor setting led to an environment with staff feeling at ease while collaborating with colleagues for the first time in weeks. 

In these ever-changing times, it is more important than ever to provide an opportunity for employees to recreate in-person connections with their colleagues.  Video conferencing and phone meetings bridge the gap and provide safe options for organizations in the Covid-19 Era.  However, many employees at organizations nationwide, miss the daily interaction and culture of their companies that a virtual setting lacks. 

Patricia Filbrandt, Company President shared, “This staff outing looked different than years past with masks, hand sanitizer on every table, and the constant need to provide a safe environment for our employees.  Nevertheless, many things remained the same, laughter, team building, and great discussions, helped our team members connect with each other in a safe environment.  We were also happy to be able to support local businesses, which is important to our firm, with prizes for the event and our individual lunch options.  It was a great day.”

In the upcoming quarter, managers at the firm are evaluating feedback taken from the experience and incorporating.  A key takeaway from the day, includes identifying opportunities to get staff outdoors and engaging with one another.  Employees at Filbrandt & Company remain one of the firm’s greatest assets, and keeping them engaged and healthy has never been more important.