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Should an Incentive Trip Include a Few Hours of Meetings?

Magdalena Bonnelly • October 30, 2024

Should your incentive trip include few hours of meetings?

Incentive travel, also known as reward travel for employees, is a powerful tool for motivating teams, recognizing hard work, and building camaraderie. The very idea of “corporate incentive travel” paints a picture of relaxation, adventure, and sharing an amazing experience outside the workplace.

Yet one question repeatedly arises for stakeholders at the company: should this time be also used for a formal, few hours of meetings? Should the itinerary account a quick gathering to discuss company-related items?


Here’s a friendly, unbiased look at the pros and cons, helping you decide what’s best for your team and your goals.


The incentive trip organizers need to ask themselves few questions, before proceeding with scheduled meeting on the itinerary.

First, is only a part of a department attending the incentive? If so, what will be the message if the meeting happens on this exclusive incentive trip? Will others feel excluded? Will it create division in the department? Based on the answer to those questions, we would recommend proceeding or not proceeding with formal meeting.


The Case for Including Meetings in Incentive Trips


1. Reinforcing Company Goals and Vision

A well-timed meeting during an incentive trip can refocus the team on company objectives. This time can be used to showcase the company’s growth, highlight achievements, or introduce new projects that the team will embark on together. It’s an ideal moment for leaders to strengthen the alignment between the company’s vision and each team member’s role in achieving it.


2. Maximizing ROI for the Investment
Incentive trips are an investment, and by dedicating a small amount of time to meetings, you maximize this investment by blending relaxation with purpose. By setting aside a few hours for strategic discussions, the trip delivers not only personal and team benefits but also measurable business outcomes. Whether it’s an hour of skill-building or a strategy workshop, this meeting time can bring an added layer of value.


3. Creating a Space for Recognition and Motivation
Including a meeting can be an ideal moment to spotlight achievements and recognize top performers. Group recognition amplifies motivation, especially when it’s done in a beautiful setting far from the office. This shared moment can help participants return to work with a renewed sense of commitment and purpose.



The Case Against Including Meetings


1. Preserving the Spirit of the Trip
One of the primary appeals of reward travel for employees is the freedom to disconnect from work responsibilities. Adding meetings to the itinerary may dilute the “pure relaxation” factor and diminish the impact of the incentive. Some employees might feel they’re not getting a true break, which could affect their motivation.


2. Focusing Entirely on Bonding and Fun
Incentive trips often emphasize team building through activities, dinners, and excursions. This informal bonding is sometimes more impactful than formal meetings, as it allows team members to build relationships organically. Without the added pressure of a meeting, employees may feel more inclined to engage with their peers in a relaxed setting.


3. Reducing Planning Complexity
Incorporating meetings means finding suitable spaces, setting up AV equipment, and potentially coordinating a schedule that disrupts the flow of a leisure-centric trip. Simplifying the itinerary by leaving meetings out can reduce stress for planners and participants alike.


So, What’s the Verdict?

The answer ultimately depends on your company’s goals for the incentive trip. If the focus is purely on relaxation and team bonding, skipping the meetings might be the best choice.

However, if the goal is to align the team around upcoming objectives or recognize achievements in a formal setting, a well-timed meeting could add immense value.


Are you looking to Plan a Rewarding Incentive Trip?

Whether you’re looking to create an agenda with or without meetings, we specialize in incentive trip planning that strikes the perfect balance.

Contact us for a complimentary consultation on how we can help design a corporate incentive travel experience that aligns with your company’s goals, motivates your team, and provides lasting impact.

Ready to get started? Let’s plan an unforgettable trip together!


If you found this post helpful, feel free to share it on LinkedIn and help others navigate the question of meetings on incentive trips.

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