If you work in an office environment, odds are pretty good that you see your coworkers every day and interact with them pretty frequently, but do you really know your co-workers? Do you really know what drives them, what their passions are, or where they come from? Sure, you might see them at the weekly sales meeting or stop to talk with them when you pass in the hallway, but do you really get to know who they are as people? To get to know your co-workers better, there’s one thing that really seals the deal: an employee bonding trip.

The Power Gen Sales Team had a three day excursion to Oak Hill, West Virginia that included bowling, rafting, and volunteering. The first night of our three day team bonding trip was bowling at Pinheads. We all had a great time getting to know one another on a deeper level while participating in some friendly competition. The night was full of good eats and lots of laughter. I think a company bowling league will be in the works!

The second day of the trip was spent whitewater rafting hosted by The New & Gauley River Adventures. The weather was dismal and grey clouds encased the mountains, but we were exited and ready to see what the rapids had in store. One of our teammates fell out but jumped right back in the boat at rapid speed. The guides were great and made our trip extra fun!

We spent the last day of our trip giving back to the community by volunteering at the Mountaineer Foodbank. We presented them with a check and helped pack the boxes that are filled with various food items to help local veterans and families in need. The trip was more than just a company outing. It was about teamwork, camaraderie, and supporting a local cause.

Part of having a close-knit team is getting to know each other well. It’s not enough to have a lunch from time-to-time–you need to build your own traditions, get out of the office, and do something fun. Team-building activities and trips that boost morale can break down barriers among employees and create an environment that is nice to work in, which is vital to a successful and well-functioning business.