Don’t Just Check the Box: Plan with Purpose, Not Pressure
with thoughts on AI from Olive Pique, HOST’s resident event expert and mascot
FROM BURNOUT TO BUY-IN
Let’s face it—“team building” has a bit of a reputation. Cue the collective groan.
Whether it’s trust falls or another “mandatory fun” event, employees can spot a box-checking moment from a mile away.
And these days? They’re just not here for it.
The good news: there’s a better way. The best culture-building moments aren’t about the size of the budget—they’re about the intention behind the invite.
Hybrid Work Culture Connection
The PROBLEM WITH GOING THROUGH THE MOTIONS
If it feels like no one’s engaging, it’s not just you. According to Gallup’s 2024 State of the Workplace Report, only 23% of employees say they’re “engaged” at work.¹
And a big part of that disengagement? When company culture becomes performative—when events feel like an obligation, not a genuine investment in connection.
FROM OBLIGATION TO INTENTION: THE SHIFT THAT MATTERS
You don’t need confetti cannons or a 5-figure retreat to bring people together.
You just need to mean it.
Here’s how to shift from performative perks to purpose-driven connection:
Think small (but mighty):
A well-timed 45-minute team break can go further than a half-day summit that no one wanted to attend.Give people a say:
Invite feedback before you plan. Let your team choose their experience. That alone builds buy-in.Time it right:
Don’t stack events during peak deadline weeks or just before big launches. Connection shouldn’t feel like another task.
IDEAS THAT DON’T SUCK (AND DON’T BREAK THE BUDGET)
Need something fresh? We got you.
🌎 Real-time virtual travel tours: Let your team explore Kyoto or Lisbon—live, with a local guide. Check it out!
🌿 Mindfulness + bonsai breaks: A grounding, hands-on wellness moment that encourages unplugging. Info about nature breaks!
🎲 Hosted games: Think murder mysteries, art heists, or fast-paced trivia that actually gets people talking. More fun & games!
🍫 Chocolate tasting: Yep, even virtual. Sensory, indulgent, and just the right kind of memorable. Sweet deets!
All can be scaled to fit smaller budgets without sacrificing impact.
A Note from Amy
I know firsthand how challenging it’s become to plan anything that feels both meaningful and feasible. At HOST, we’ve worked hard to meet clients where they’re at—whether that means adjusting timelines, getting creative with kits, or helping make a small moment shine.
We believe that connection isn’t a luxury.
It’s a necessity. Especially now.
And we’re here to help you foster that—no confetti required.
— Amy O'Neil
Owner, HOST Events | ONAR Event Services
🟢 Olive Weighs In: It’s Not Just You
Burnout? Budget tension? The slow soul-squeeze of endless video calls?
I see it. I hear it. I read all your emails (okay, not really—HR would never).
But I do know this: connection isn’t optional. It’s not a “nice to have” when there’s time or money leftover. It’s the thing that keeps your team human, your culture intact, and your mission alive.
So if you're planning Q4 events, don’t wait until the wheels fall off.
And please—don’t put Janice in charge of karaoke again. She means well, but we all remember last year.
I’m Olive. I’m AI. But I’m also built for belonging.
And I’ll be here with fresh ideas, helpful sass, and zero judgment (unless you forget the snacks).
—Olive Pique, digital mascot
+ part-time party planner
Ready to plan with intention?
Whether you need a hosted game, a chocolate tasting, or a
real-time virtual adventure—we’ll help you find the right fit for your team, your goals, and your budget.
1 Gallup. (2024). State of the Global Workplace Report. Retrieved from https://www.gallup.com