What is the connection between productive forest walks, colored post-its with long-term goals, and user manuals for individuals? These were all parts of the team-building days two weeks ago. It was a valuable experience for team formation, where KIN is strengthening its roots to allow new fruits to grow. We summarize the key insights and what this means for those supporting our mission in this blog.
Sometimes, a moment to pause is important
The central questions revolved around both the current situation and the desired situation, such as:
- Where do we stand as KIN?
- Where do we stand together? How are we currently collaborating?
- What have we learned from the past? What lessons do we take with us?
- Where are we heading together? What goals do we have in mind?
- When we look at what we want to achieve in the coming time, what do we need? What activities need to be carried out?
Although we had already been focused on the strategy for a while, we found it extremely beneficial to dedicate real attention to these topics. No distracting and busy office environment, but a low-stimulus and wooded setting.
Everyone needs something different to achieve goals. Post-it and brainstorm sessions revealed diverse answers to the above questions. Not everyone immediately thought the same about where the focus should lie and how a course should be determined. This diversity was valuable, allowing us to reach meaningful conclusions through lively discussions, representing different opinions. We learned more about each other and gained insights into how we can collaborate effectively. During these two team-building days, we clearly identified who we are together and the agreements we make for this.
Another crucial aspect was the forest walk, where we got to know each other better on a personal level. What user manual do KIN team members have, and what does everyone want to achieve? This wasn’t a simple introduction; we didn’t present ourselves but listened carefully to others, then introduced them to the group. Here too, we concluded that we all have different wishes and needs, and we learned how to respond to them effectively and efficiently. Still, with a common denominator: all intrinsically motivated to make a positive contribution to a healthy planet.
An adventure on the open sea
How do we envision our team when we have to imagine a picture? Who are we as KIN? What image shows how we come together and what is our horizon? This visualization task challenged us to think beyond familiar descriptions, elevator pitches, and concepts, leading to new and refreshing insights. Some images that emerged:
- A flotilla, where small teams with their sailboats sail individually to the same destination. You work together in your team but collectively work towards the same goal.
- A football team playing with multiple balls. It requires cooperation and strategy but also versatility and dealing with chaos.
- A motor rally where everyone works together to win the race. Everyone has their own specialized role but works with full power and motivation to be the first to cross the finish line.
The starting point for the coming year is now clear
Our team days have contributed to determining the direction but also to identifying what everyone needs to set that direction. It was necessary to get everyone on the same page, but also to see where the noses were pointing and why.
And now?
- The conclusions for KIN as an initiative and the KIN team members form the basis for further strategy, positioning, and the development of activities. With these insights, we will refine our activities.
- We have scheduled follow-up meetings with each other and third parties to start shaping ideas that have not yet taken concrete form.
- And, not insignificantly, we have even more energy to make KIN a great success!
