Getting to know the new trainees before they officially start their training is a cool idea. Who was responsible for the organization, and what were your goals for the team event?
Helena: Nathalie and I took over the organization. It was particularly important for us to get to know the “trainees2be” personally and to make sure there was plenty of time to connect and talk during the event. The trainee event takes place every year before the summer vacation. Most of the new trainees signed their contract months ago, so the event also serves to bridge the long wait until their training officially starts.
How did you come up with your team event, and what was the idea behind it?
Helena: With our goal in mind, we searched the internet for various team-oriented events and asked our colleagues for ideas. It wasn’t easy to choose because there are so many great offers for team events in Göttingen. We eventually decided on Big Ball Soccer because it seemed like the most fun. Spoiler: as it turned out, everyone had a great time in a relaxed atmosphere.
How did you organize the event, and what challenges did you face?
Helena: As the activity was supposed to be a surprise for everyone, Nathalie and I worked hard to keep it a secret. Of course, we got help from others when needed, but thanks to the cooperative team at Big Ball Soccer, we only had to worry about a location and the catering.
What was your personal highlight of the team event?
Helena: Watching the others play was my biggest highlight. If you’re familiar with Big Ball Soccer, you’ll know playing football with a giant inflatable ball is exhausting – but it looks hilarious.
What did you learn from organizing and running the event?
Helena: We learned how important it is to be thorough. You always have to have an ace up your sleeve in case something doesn’t go as planned. Luckily, we didn’t have any problems on the day because we had noticed some important little things the week before, and were made aware of them by attentive colleagues.
What feedback did you get from the future trainees on this first joint event? Did you achieve your goal?
Helena: The feedback was positive. As expected, playing was very tiring. So it was a good thing that we had planned a meal at Café del Sol afterward. Overall, we are very happy with the team event. We had plenty of time to talk to the new trainees and advise them, for example, on choosing their new tech – laptops, monitors, headsets, and other accessories they’ll soon need. We all got to know each other well, and we think the event laid a great foundation for our time together as apprentices. The time spent together will make the start easier for the new trainees.
*This article’s header image shows the new trainees on their first day of work with us on August 1, 2025.
What tips would you give other trainees who want to plan a similar event?
Helena: Start planning early, even if the event is still a long way off. Also, make sure to keep others in the loop – many colleagues have very important and useful advice. Cooperation is the key to good planning.
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