A staff that works well together, functioning as a team, is a crucial factor in a successful congressional office. Too frequently, staff work in isolation, not able to appreciate the benefits that can accrue to an office that works synergistically. Not surprisingly, staff often have little understanding or appreciation of the roles and functions that other staff play. Achievement of office goals is impaired by this absence of strong staff working relationships.
Objective
It is possible to strengthen weak working relationships, and even to repair damaged ones, through a staff team building meeting. Team building sessions:- Improve an office's ability to work more productively toward accomplishing the Member's goals.
- Increase staff understanding of and appreciation for the value and contribution of the work of other staff.
- Build the foundation of a stronger and more productive DC-district/state staff working relationship.
- Enhance staff satisfaction and morale, resulting in higher productivity and reduced staff turnover.
Process
CMF can design and facilitate a one- or two-day team building session for your congressional office. Because each office is unique, the CMF analyst will work with staff and the Member to tailor the process to ensure that it best meets your specific needs.
This design process includes:
- A meeting with the Member and the Chief of Staff to discuss expectations and determine the objectives of the session.
- Discussions with staff about their views of the office, the outcomes they desire from the team building session, and any obstacles they see to achieving them.
- Design and development of the team building session through collaboration between the Chief of Staff and the CMF analyst.
Cost
Team building is enhanced when done in conjunction with a Strategic Planning session (which clarifies goals and plans for achieving them), or an office retreat focusing on internal problems. Team building can also be the sole focus of an office retreat.
The cost to a House office for design of the agenda, preparation, facilitation and follow-up of a team building session is $3,000 for the first day, and $1,000 for each additional day. If the session is held in the district, there will be an additional charge for travel time. All of the facilitator's travel and lodging expenses are also paid by the office.
The cost to a Senate office is slightly higher and varies depending upon the size of the staff, preparation time, and the number of facilitators required to effectively perform the work. If the session is held in the state, there will be an additional charge for travel time. All of the facilitator's travel and lodging expenses are also paid by the office.
Questions?
If you would like further information about this service, or would like to discuss other CMF services, please contact us. All contacts with CMF are strictly confidential.
CMF Credentials
Several characteristics distinguish CMF from other management groups. These include:
- We have been researching, writing, and providing advice on the subject of congressional management since 1977.
- We have successfully worked with over one hundred House and Senate offices and provide management services that are tailored to the unique needs of congressional offices.
- As a non-profit organization, we are able to set our fees at a level that is within reach of congressional office budgets.
