I was reminded of this topic when reading some of the comments to my Ego in Search and Rescue and Play in Search Training posts.
The importance of socialising your team!
Actually most SAR teams I’ve come across [in fact all!] are very good at building a “team spirit” through various activities – both social and training. The fact that this frequently consists of copious amounts of alcoholic beverages might have something to do with it, I’m lead to believe.
We are also getting much better at socialising outside our own teams too – helped by many joint exercises, conferences and so forth. And could I go so far as to say we are better at socialising across SAR disciplines too…
Have no doubt at how important this is. Indeed anyone involved in organising any training or event should try to plan in ample time to allow participants to “get to know each other”.
A long while ago I was at a Urban Search and Rescue Conference organised by the Fire Service. The issue of inter-team “rivalry” was mentioned, as well as other issues to do with inter-agency working and so on. Amazingly, the majority of delegates highlighted the importance of all getting together – preferably in the bar – and chatting. Taking the time to get to know the other person!
So, whilst I’m sure no encouragement is needed from me, I urge you all to take a look at your calendars. If you don’t have a SAR social event down in the next three months [better still one with another team] – arrange one this week!
