Planning a Staff Retreat

May 2026

An ABA member was planning their first staff retreat and asked us for guidance on best practices. In response, ABA conducted desk research, drawing on business literature and insights from members with experience organizing successful retreats.

This deck presents key findings on:

• The potential of staff retreats as organizational rituals: When intentionally designed, staff retreats can take on ritualistic qualities through three core dimensions—physical, psychological, and communal. Such events can strengthen team cohesion, create shared meaning, build community, and enhance wellbeing and performance.

• Best practices before, during, and after the retreat: Including staff consultation and listening, venue selection, agenda design dos and don'ts, retreat flow and structure, thematic development, and planning timelines.

The full report is available to ABA members by clicking below.

This article is related to a recently completed custom research project conducted on behalf of an ABA member. Our research team is always delighted to speak with members about tailoring research projects to your organization. To learn more or submit a custom research request, simply contact your member advisor or email us at info@advisoryarts.com.