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The Benefits of Sailing to Create a Team

The benefits of using sailing as a vehicle for leadership and team development are well known and many would argue that sailing is one of the most effective ways of demonstrating both qualities in a ‘non-work’ environment.  There is however, much more to team and leadership development afloat than simply ‘going for a sail’, which is why a specific activity called the Strategy Challenge was developed in 2001.  To date is has been successfully delivered for dozens of teams from organisations such as Capgemini, John Lewis, and RBS in the Solent.  Through Go-Sail.je Limited the Strategy Challenge is now available to organisations and teams in Jersey.

How Does it Work?
The Strategy Challenge is a tried and tested strategy challenge that develops team and leadership skills in a testing but highly rewarding environment.  Teams enjoy a full day on board a fully equipped and locally licensed sailing yacht under the guidance of an experienced skipper.
 
Crews begin the day by developing a strategy that will enable them to win points across three key areas:
            1. By sailing past chosen navigation marks around the coast of Jersey
            2. By rotating key roles on board the yacht
            3. By demonstrating effective teamwork and leadership
 
The crew’s strategy will be based on wind speed and direction, tide and the strengths of the team.  Successful teams plan meticulously, train to specific objectives, communicate clearly before and during the challenge but adapt quickly to the changing environment of the sea.  Success however is ultimately linked to behaviour and the key to success is understanding that there is a clear link between performance and culture – hierarchies must be put to one side and teams must learn that every member of the team has a specific and valuable strength that if identified early can lead to victory!