Organisations face the ongoing challenge of retaining young talent. Outward Bound explains how outdoor learning can provide an effective solution.
As younger employees seek meaningful and engaging work experiences, innovative strategies are necessary to boost their loyalty and retention.
One effective approach is through outdoor behavioural development experiences, which foster skills essential for personal and professional growth.
Outward Bound, a leader in experiential learning, has demonstrated significant benefits in this area, impacting the lives of countless young professionals through their programmes.
ISE and Outward Bound webinar ‘Empowering Future Leaders: Transforming Early Careers Talent through Outdoor Learning’ dives some of the strategies used to develop early talent.
The power of outdoor experiences
Outdoor experiences offer a unique opportunity for employees to develop a range of skills in a non-traditional environment.
These activities, such as climbing, canoeing, and hiking, encourage participants to step out of their comfort zones, face challenges head-on, and work collaboratively towards common goals.
By engaging in these experiences, young employees can cultivate resilience, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.
The benefits of such experiences are profound. According to a decade-long study conducted by Outward Bound, 97% of apprentices and 96% of graduates reported an increase in their ability to work with others after participating in an Outward Bound residential programme.
This improvement in teamwork translates into a more cohesive and supportive work environment, which is critical for employee satisfaction and retention.
Why outdoor experiences appeal to young employees
Outdoor experiences resonate particularly well with younger employees for several reasons.
Firstly, these experiences provide an opportunity to escape the confines of the traditional work setting and engage with nature, promoting mental wellbeing and reducing stress.
Additionally, the challenge and excitement of outdoor adventures align with the desire of many young professionals for personal growth and continuous learning.
Furthermore, outdoor experiences align with the values of younger generations who prioritise work-life balance and seek employers who invest in their personal development.
Programmes like those offered by Outward Bound empower participants to reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering self-awareness and a sense of purpose. In fact, 96% of apprentices and 93% of graduates reported increased self-awareness and management skills following their involvement in these programmes (Outward Bound, 2024).
Building loyalty through shared values and experiences
Outdoor experiences also help bridge the gap between personal and organisational values.
By participating in activities that emphasise teamwork and problem-solving, employees gain a deeper understanding of how these values manifest in real-world situations. This alignment encourages young professionals to embrace the organisation’s mission and feel more connected to their work, enhancing their loyalty and commitment.
The data supports this approach: 96% of apprentices and 91% of graduates reported an increased understanding and ability to demonstrate organisational values after participating in Outward Bound programmes (Outward Bound, 2024).
When employees see their values reflected in their work, they are more likely to stay with the company, contributing to higher retention rates.
Outdoor experiences provide a powerful tool for increasing loyalty and retention among young employees. By investing in programmes that promote personal and professional development, organisations can create a more engaged and committed workforce.
The positive outcomes of these initiatives are evident in the experiences of those who have participated in Outward Bound’s programmes, highlighting the lasting impact of outdoor adventures on employee satisfaction and retention.
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