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Company outing for entrepreneurs: How to truly strengthen your team!
A successful company outing is more than just a pleasant day – it is an investment in your team. Discover how you can create an unforgettable experience with careful planning and creative ideas that strengthen cohesion and positively influence company culture. Need assistance in planning your next company outing? Contact us for a non-binding consultation.
The topic, briefly and concisely
A well-planned company outing is a strategic tool for promoting team spirit and strengthening corporate culture, which positively impacts employee motivation.
The legal framework, particularly the co-determination rights of the works council and the principle of equal treatment, must be observed in the organisation to ensure legal certainty.
By utilising tax advantages and considering insurance aspects, costs can be optimised and liability risks minimised, which can lead to an increase in employee retention by up to 10%.
Planning the perfect company outing? Discover how the right concept can boost employee motivation while also taking advantage of tax benefits. Find out more now!
A company outing is more than just a pleasant day out of the office. It is a strategic tool for promoting team spirit and strengthening company culture. But what exactly defines a company outing and how does it differ from other corporate events? We outline the core features and show you how a well-planned outing can provide positive impulses for your company.
Definition and Distinction
A company outing is an employer-initiated, usually day-long event that is open to the entire workforce or parts thereof. Its aim is to promote team spirit and show appreciation for employees. The future effects on employee relations are an important aspect. Participation is voluntary, and the organization is the employer's responsibility. Herzbluttigerevents.de emphasizes that company outings are meant to strengthen corporate culture and improve the working atmosphere.
Objectives and Benefits
A successful company outing can sustainably improve the working environment. It strengthens employee retention, enhances communication and collaboration, and shows employees appreciation and motivation. Through shared experiences outside the daily work routine, new connections are formed, and a stronger sense of belonging is fostered. This can positively impact employee productivity and engagement. Our ideas for cool company outings offer inspiration for planning your next trip.
Distinction from Other Corporate Events
Company outings differ from other corporate events such as Christmas parties, summer fêtes, and team-building events. While Christmas parties and summer fêtes often have a more festive nature, team-building events are more focused on the targeted development of team skills. The company outing, however, combines elements from both areas and provides a relaxed atmosphere for joint activities and informal exchanges. Personio.de classifies company outings as a form of corporate event, which also includes Christmas parties and summer fêtes.
Ensure Legal Certainty: Duties and Framework Conditions for Entrepreneurs
Organising a company outing is generally voluntary, yet there are some legal frameworks and obligations that you, as an employer, should be aware of. These include the co-determination rights of the works council, the principle of equal treatment, and the voluntary nature of participation. We provide you with an overview of the key aspects to ensure your outing runs smoothly and in compliance with legal requirements.
No General Legal Obligation
There is no general legal obligation to organise a company outing. The decision rests at the employer’s discretion. However, you should consider that a well-organised outing can have a positive impact on employee motivation and the workplace atmosphere. Wirtschaftslexikon Gabler emphasises that there is no compulsory legal basis for organising a company outing.
Co-Determination Rights of the Works Council
The works council has co-determination rights in the planning of the company outing, particularly regarding the working time regulations before and after the outing as well as the extent of the creditable working time. Therefore, it is advisable to involve the works council early in the planning process and consider their suggestions. Our checklist for company outing planning supports you in this.
Principle of Equal Treatment
When organising a company outing, you must adhere to the principle of equal treatment. This means that all employees have the right to attend the outing, including those who are in their notice period. Exceptions are only permissible if the presence of certain employees is essential for maintaining business operations. Personio.de points out that the principle of equal treatment also applies to employees undergoing the termination process.
Voluntary Participation and Work Obligations
Participation in a company outing is essentially voluntary. However, this does not mean that employees who do not wish to participate can simply stay at home. They are obliged to meet their work obligations. In the event of sick leave during the company outing, a doctor’s certificate is required.
Make optimal use of working hours: Compensation models for company outings
The question of working hours and remuneration for company outings is often complex. If the outing takes place during regular working hours, it is considered working time with continued pay. However, exceeding regular working hours generally does not result in overtime entitlements. We clarify the key points and show you how to make the working time regulations fair and transparent.
Company outing during regular working hours
If the company outing takes place during regular working hours, this time is counted as working time with continued pay. This means that employees receive their normal pay for the time of the outing. However, it is important to clearly communicate the working time regulations to avoid misunderstandings. Personio.de confirms that company outings during regular working hours count as working time.
Exceeding regular working hours
If the company outing exceeds the regular working hours, no general overtime entitlements usually arise. This is especially true if participation is voluntary. However, as an employer, you can voluntarily compensate for overtime or offer time off in lieu. It is advisable to clearly communicate these regulations in advance.
Company outing outside working hours (weekend/public holiday)
If the company outing occurs outside working hours, for example, on a weekend or public holiday, it is generally considered leisure activity. There is no obligation to compensate for this time. However, you can offer your employees time off as an incentive to participate. Herzbluttigerevents.de points out that there is no obligation to compensate for company outings outside working hours.
Part-time employees
Part-time employees should be treated in the same way as full-time employees when organising a company outing. They have the same right to participate and, if applicable, to compensation or time off in lieu. Different treatment would be discriminatory and legally inadmissible.
Optimise costs: Taxes and social insurance for company outings
The costs for a company outing can quickly add up in the budget. Therefore, it's important to consider the tax and social security aspects. There is a tax-free amount of 110 euros per participant for a maximum of two outings per year. We will show you how to optimally manage costs and take advantage of tax benefits.
Cost coverage by the employer
There is no legal obligation for the employer to cover the full costs of a company outing. However, it is common for the employer to bear the costs to ensure a positive perception among employees. Cost-sharing with employees can be agreed upon on a case-by-case basis. Personio.de explains that employers are not required to cover all costs, but full cost coverage is common practice.
Tax-free amount
For company outings, there is a tax-free amount of 110 euros per participant for up to two outings per year. This amount covers all costs associated with the outing, such as meals, transport, and activities. It is important that participation in the outing is voluntary and open to all employees. Herzbluttigerevents.de emphasizes the importance of documentation to ensure tax deductibility.
Taxation of excess amounts
If the costs per participant exceed the tax-free amount of 110 euros, the excess amounts are subject to either regular income tax or a 25% flat tax. The flat tax is especially beneficial when individual tax rates for employees are higher. It is advisable to seek advice from a tax consultant on this matter.
In-kind benefits
In-kind benefits granted during a company outing are tax and social security exempt within certain exempt thresholds. This applies, for example, to small gifts or vouchers. When calculating exempt thresholds, benefits given to family members participating in the outing must also be taken into account.
Minimise liability risks: Insurance coverage for safe company outings
When planning a company outing, you should also keep the liability risks in mind. An important aspect is the insurance coverage. Accidents that occur during a “real” company outing are typically covered by statutory accident insurance. We explain what is meant by a “real” company outing and when the insurance coverage applies.
Statutory Accident Insurance
The statutory accident insurance covers accidents that occur during a “real” company outing. This includes accidents on the direct way there and back. A “real” company outing occurs if the event is initiated by the employer, takes place during working hours, and is open to all employees. Personio.de emphasizes that accidents on the direct route to and from the company outing are covered by statutory accident insurance.
Beginning and End of Insurance Coverage
It is important to clearly communicate the event period to establish the beginning and end of the insurance coverage. Insurance coverage generally begins with the official start of the outing and ends with the official conclusion. Activities that take place outside of this period are usually not covered by statutory accident insurance.
Exclusion of Insurance Coverage
The insurance coverage is excluded if the company outing transitions into private celebrations or if non-employees, such as family members, participate in the event. Alcohol-related accidents or gross negligence may also lead to the exclusion of insurance coverage. It is therefore advisable to ensure responsible alcohol consumption and to inform employees about the risks.
Maintain a Professional Demeanour: Guidelines for the Company Outing
Even though a company outing offers a relaxed atmosphere, certain behavioral rules should be observed. Appropriate behavior and respect towards colleagues and superiors are a matter of course. The handling of sensitive information should also be carried out responsibly. We provide tips on how to maintain a professional demeanor and avoid misconduct.
General Behavioral Rules
General behavioral rules, such as appropriate behavior and respect, should also be adhered to during a company outing. This applies especially to interactions with colleagues and superiors. A respectful tone and adherence to common courtesies contribute to a positive environment.
Handling of Sensitive Information
The handling of sensitive information should be carried out responsibly, even during a company outing. Avoid discussions about confidential topics that are not meant for the public. Internal company matters should also not be discussed in public. Personio.de advises against discussing sensitive information during the company outing.
Disciplinary Measures for Misconduct
In cases of misconduct during a company outing, disciplinary actions up to dismissal may be threatened. This is particularly true for violations of behavioral rules or damage to the company. It is therefore important to inform employees in advance about the possible consequences.
Using First Names with Superiors
Using first names with superiors requires tactful handling. Not every superior is comfortable with being addressed in this way. Therefore, it is advisable to obtain the supervisor's consent in advance or to follow the usual courtesies within the company.
Harnessing Success Factors: How to Plan the Perfect Company Outing
A successful company outing requires careful planning and organisation. Employee involvement in the planning, the selection of activities and realistic budget planning are crucial success factors. We provide you with practical tips on how to plan the perfect outing and meet your employees' expectations. Our information about the company outing firm will assist you in making your decision.
Employee Involvement
Employee involvement in the planning of a company outing is a key success factor. Involve the staff in the decision-making processes and take their wishes and suggestions into account. This promotes acceptance and increases anticipation for the outing.
Selection of Activities
When selecting activities, you should consider the interests of the employees. Offer a variety of activities from which employees can choose. Ensure there is something for every taste and that the activities match the physical abilities of the participants. Our ideas for cool company outings will provide you with inspiration.
Budget Planning
Realistic budget planning is essential for a successful company outing. Calculate all costs in advance and also take unforeseen expenses into account. Make sure that the budget is not exceeded and that the costs are proportionate to the benefits of the outing.
Communication and Information
Transparent information about the process and participation conditions is crucial for smooth company outings. Inform employees in good time about all important details, such as date, location, activities, and costs. Ensure all questions are answered and that no misunderstandings arise.
Strengthening cohesion: Company outings as a key to corporate culture
The company outing is more than just a pleasant day out of the office. It is a vital tool for promoting team cohesion and motivation among employees. By sharing experiences and informal exchanges, you can sustainably strengthen the corporate culture. We show you how to strategically utilize the company outing to benefit from the positive effects in the long run.
The Importance of Company Outings for Corporate Culture
The company outing plays an important role in the corporate culture. It enhances team cohesion and motivation among employees, improves communication and collaboration, and strengthens employee loyalty. Shared experiences outside the workday foster a stronger sense of belonging and a positive work atmosphere.
Future Trends
Even in company outings, there are future trends to keep an eye on. These include, for example, innovative formats and activities tailored to the individual needs of employees. Sustainability and social responsibility also play an increasingly larger role. At GoTuro, we offer party trips and incentive trips that take these aspects into account.
Recommendations for Companies
We recommend companies to regularly conduct company outings to strengthen employee loyalty and promote corporate culture. Plan the outings carefully and involve employees in the planning. Ensure a balanced mix of activities that are both fun and encourage team spirit. Use the company outing as an opportunity to show appreciation to your employees and create a positive work climate.
Government grants for company outings offer an excellent opportunity to invest in employee motivation and team spirit. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-day journey, the available support programs and tax benefits make organizing a company outing attractive and financially feasible.
With a variety of support programs and tax incentives, there are numerous ways to reduce the costs of your company outing. At GoTuro, we offer comprehensive advice and support in choosing the right concept, fulfilling legal requirements, navigating the application process, and avoiding potential issues.
By deciding on a company outing, you invest in the future of your business. You not only reduce employee turnover and ensure a motivated workforce but also make an important contribution to increasing productivity.
Now is the perfect time to explore options for your next company outing. Contact us today to start your individual consultation and easily file your sponsorship application. Register for free and receive an initial assessment immediately for planning your company outing.
More useful links
Wikipedia offers a comprehensive overview of team building and its significance in companies.
Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) provides information on workplace quality and employee motivation, important aspects for successful corporate outings.
Statutory Accident Insurance (DGUV) provides information on workplace safety, including relevant aspects for corporate outings.
German Association for Human Resource Management (DGFP) provides information on personnel development and teamwork that is useful in planning corporate outings.
German Economic Institute (IW) offers analyses and reports on the working world and corporate culture, illuminating the context of corporate outings.
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) provides information on corporate image and employer branding, aspects that can be positively influenced by successful corporate outings.
FAQ
What exactly is a company outing and what are its main objectives?
A company outing is an event organized by the employer, usually lasting one day, aimed at promoting team spirit and strengthening employee engagement. The goal is to create a positive work atmosphere and express appreciation for employees.
Is there a legal obligation for companies to organize company outings?
No, there is no general legal obligation to hold a company outing. The decision is at the employer's discretion. However, a well-organized outing can have a positive impact on employee motivation and the work environment.
What role does the works council play in planning a company outing?
The works council has a right of co-determination in the organization of the company outing, particularly with regard to working time arrangements and the extent of the creditable working time. It is advisable to involve the works council in the planning at an early stage.
Must all employees be able to participate in a company outing?
Yes, the principle of equal treatment states that all employees have the right to participate in the outing, including those in their notice period. Exceptions are only permissible if the presence of certain employees is essential for the continuation of operations.
How are the costs of a company outing treated for tax purposes?
There is a tax-free allowance of 110 euros per participant for a maximum of two outings annually. If the costs exceed this amount, the excess amounts are taxable either at the regular income tax rate or at a flat rate of 25%.
Are accidents during a company outing covered by statutory accident insurance?
Yes, statutory accident insurance covers accidents that occur during a “genuine” company outing. A “genuine” company outing takes place when the event is initiated by the employer, occurs during working hours, and is open to all employees.
What conduct rules should be observed during a company outing?
Even during a company outing, general conduct rules such as appropriate behaviour and respect should be observed. Sensitive information should be handled responsibly, and discussions about confidential topics should be avoided.
How can a company ensure the success of a company outing?
A successful company outing requires careful planning and organization. Employee involvement in the planning, the choice of activities, and realistic budgeting are crucial success factors.
