What morale-boosting programs or events (e.g., team-building activities, wellness initiatives) have been effective in improving employee engagement?
Our recent snowperson building contest had much participation and employee engagement. Every department and branch participated except for two. Our upcoming team spelling bee is also generating much team engagement and enthusiasm.
Employee events, even if casual, are appreciated (e.g., cornhole tournaments, Halloween costume competitions, food trucks, ice cream trucks, random pizza luncheons, wellness room, schedule flexibility for necessary family accommodations, employee appreciation day, etc.).
We host a monthly Collaboration Day with activities such as crafts, educational workshops, and games. Breakfast and lunch are provided to foster engagement and teamwork. Branches and departments organize morale-boosting events throughout the year, with employee involvement in planning. Activities have included escape rooms, pool tables, and axe throwing. We also prioritize employee wellness through on-site massage sessions with professional massage therapists.
Employee bowling event, holiday party, office Olympics, employee and family outing at a local amusement venue, Friday fun days with themes (e.g., tropical shirts, football jerseys), Halloween decorating and costumes, ice cream sundae day in the summer.
If employees complete their annual physical and accumulate 150 points from January 2025 to December 2025, they receive a day off. This also helps with aHealthyMe utilization, increasing the chances of receiving the bonus from MassBankers.
Numerous initiatives, including:
- Volunteer opportunities (paid volunteering) like My Brother's Keeper, Smart With Money Fair, and Credit for Life at local schools.
- Branch competitions/events - Office Olympics, food events, and branch decoration contests.
- Employee Appreciation Social - branches close early for events like I-golf or Ryan's Amusements.
- Step challenges with bank-sponsored prizes, like an 8-hour floating holiday for 1st place.
- Ice cream truck visits and a golf league.
Summer all-employee outing, holiday party, food trucks every few months, and themed celebrations every other month. We also participate in BCBS/Mass Bankers aHealthyMe activities and challenges.
A wellness initiative with a prize involved.
Informal activities in the office, which are well-attended and not costly.
- Employee engagement committee (planned theme days, trivia, newsletter)
- Volunteer opportunities
- Company-wide events
- Department events
We host quarterly events (e.g., Family Feud, paint night, music trivia) that are voluntary but offer food and fun. These events involve all levels (from Senior Managers to Tellers), boosting morale and encouraging team interaction.