Momentum Magazine October 2017 Edition | Page 11

Cultivating Connections Pocono Valley seeks to reinvigorate the workplace F or any business, the chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with their colleagues might seem nearly impossible in today’s world—not so at Pocono Valley. “When you come here for a company retreat, you’ll discover that every single person you’re looking at or bumping into here works with your team,” said Howard Gordon, director of events at Pocono Valley. “There is a plethora of activities to enjoy when you plan your company retreat here. Our goal is to provide a memorable experience.” Statistics show that close workplace friendships boost employee satisfaction by at least 50 percent, with employees being seven times more likely to engage in their work if they have a “best friend” on site. It’s these kinds of friendships that Pocono Valley wants to cultivate. “We want to build friendships and camaraderie among colleagues that they can take back to the workplace,” Mr. Gordon said. “We know that a change of scenery can help employees who might feel stuck in a rut, so we do what we can to make company retreats here an experience you won’t forget.” Located in the heart of the Poconos, Pocono Valley offers customized packages for companies, all with the focus on helping to bolster team success by creating shared memories among teammates. With accommodations for up to 5,000 guests in retro red cabins that dot its 350-acre landscape, the facility itself is a step back in time to the Poconos’ heyday as a national tourism capital, with two 900-foot zip lines that cross over a 40-acre lake, Olympic-sized pools, tree top adventures, fire pits and countless other activities for firms and families alike. “What makes our facility unique is that you don’t have to depend on the weather to have a good time,” Mr. Gordon said. “In the event of inclement weather, your company doesn’t have to cancel its retreat. We can bring you inside and still provide a wonderful experience for your employees.” Gallup’s “State of the Global Workplace” survey stated that 70 percent of American workers are either not engaged or actively engaged— according to Mr. Gordon, this number could drop if more companies create innovative ways for them to bond as a team. “Engaged employees feel connected to their companies,” he said. “We want to help workers to not feel ‘checked out’ on the job. Hopefully Pocono Valley can help them find their passion again.” Center for Women’s Imaging Our 3D Mammograms Save Lives. Early Detection. More Peace of Mind. Center for Women’s Imaging at Advanced Imaging Specialists 1000 Meade Street, Dunmore 570-207-0155 www.scrantonchamber.com • 11