Best Activities for a Company Offsite

(Tempest Experiences — Answers Series)

Introduction

When planning a company offsite, one of the biggest questions is: what activities will actually make this worth the time and money? Icebreakers and surface-level games aren’t enough. The right activities build trust, spark collaboration, and leave teams with outcomes they can feel back at the office.

At Tempest Experiences, we’ve spent years designing and running offsites for some of the world’s leading companies. Here are the best activities we’ve found, and why they work.

1. Immersive Storytelling Sessions

• Why it works: Humans are wired for stories. Research shows storytelling increases memory retention by up to 70%.

• How we use it: We deliver keynotes like Do Hard Things that show teams resilience in action.

• Outcome: Employees leave with a shared language around growth mindset and resilience.

  
  

2. Cold Exposure & Resilience Workshops

• Why it works: Novel, physical challenges create “sticky” memories and measurable boosts in trust.

• How we use it: Guided cold plunges and reflection circles, led by experts.

• Outcome: Teams report feeling more connected and confident in handling stress.

  
  

3. Strategic Alignment Breakouts

• Why it works: Smaller groups allow every voice to be heard.

• How we use it: Facilitated breakouts around the company’s biggest challenges.

• Outcome: Leaders leave aligned and accountable on priorities.

  
  

4. Outdoor Team Challenges

• Why it works: Shared physical activity strengthens bonds and builds problem-solving.

• How we use it: From orienteering challenges to resilience hikes.

• Outcome: Teams return with stronger relationships and proof that they can overcome together.

  
  

5. Fireside Chats with Leadership

• Why it works: Transparency builds trust. Hearing directly from leaders in an intimate format removes barriers.

• How we use it: Moderated conversations with CEOs, often with live audience questions.

• Outcome: Greater confidence in leadership and clearer understanding of strategy.

  
  

6. Reflection & Commitment Circles

• Why it works: Without reflection, insights fade quickly.

• How we use it: End every offsite with facilitated reflection and each person sharing a commitment.

• Outcome: Higher retention of lessons and action steps carried into the workplace.

  
  

Outcomes You Can Expect

Companies that integrate these activities into their agendas typically see:

• +20–30% boost in alignment clarity (via surveys).

• Greater psychological safety (employees feel safe speaking up).

• Improved retention of top performers thanks to stronger culture.

  
  

Get in touch

If you’re designing an offsite and want it to truly matter, these activities will set the tone.

👉 Talk to us about planning your next offsite