In our exclusive interview with Kurt Egger, an experienced mountain guide from OUTDOOR, we explore the fascinating world of team dynamics under demanding conditions.
For years, he has enabled groups and teams to explore part of the legendary north face of the Eiger – a place that remains out of reach for many. Under his expert guidance and fully equipped with safety gear, participants, even without alpine experience, have the chance to gain their first climbing experience. In doing so, they not only expand their personal limits but also strengthen the dynamics and cohesion of their team.
In the interview, he shares his insights into how this unique experience can strengthen emotional bonds within a team and have a lasting positive impact on its identity.

How long have you been working as a mountain guide in Grindelwald?
“I’ve been working as a mountain guide in Grindelwald for 29 years, ever since I completed my mountain guide training.”

What considerations played a decisive role in designing the event in the Eiger North Face, in which you were actively involved?
“When designing the event in the Eiger North Face, our focus was on creating an experience that fully highlights the uniqueness of this exclusive location in the middle of the Eiger North Face. The goal was to create an extraordinary and unforgettable experience that takes participants to a place normally out of reach for them.”

How many times have you visited the Eiger North Face with clients as part of events?
“I don’t have an exact record, but I estimate that I’ve already visited the Eiger North Face about a hundred times with clients as part of events.”

The legendary Eiger North Face rises protectively, yet also fearfully, above the glacier village of Grindelwald near Interlaken, influencing the thoughts and actions of the local population and the international mountaineering community for centuries. Experience the myth of the Eiger North Face firsthand. Together with our certified mountain guides, properly equipped with helmets and climbing harnesses and expertly instructed, you will attempt your first climbs on the Eiger North Face. For this, the train to the Jungfraujoch will stop exclusively for you at the "Stollenloch" (tunnel entrance).

Further information

Have you personally climbed the Eiger North Face? If yes, what was the experience like? If not, what was the reason?
"I personally have not yet climbed the entire Eiger North Face. So far, the opportunity never arose where all the necessary elements—such as weather, suitable climbing partners, planning, and enough time—came together. However, there were two occasions where I climbed about two-thirds of the wall."

How do you assess the current team dynamics before exiting into the Eiger North Face?
"The team dynamics before stepping into the Eiger North Face depend significantly on the quality of preparation and communication. Through open conversations about expectations and potential challenges, I consciously enhance my awareness of the existing team dynamic and help the group achieve a positive sense of togetherness."

Which specific elements of team dynamics, in your experience, have the greatest impact on the success of an event in the Eiger North Face?
"In my experience, certain elements of team dynamics—shared goals, motivation, experiences and emotions, mutual trust and support—have a significant influence on the success of an event in the Eiger North Face, especially when success means that participants feel satisfied with themselves and share positive emotions."

What measures do you take to promote a positive team culture during your stay in the Eiger North Face?
"I rely on a combination of clear communication lines, professional guidance, and the emphasis on shared experiences to promote a positive team culture during our time in the Eiger North Face."

Are there specific developments or changes in team dynamics that can be observed during the event in the Eiger North Face?
"During the event in the Eiger North Face, various developments in team dynamics can be observed. Sometimes, people who previously claimed they wouldn’t go out change their minds and actively take part in the event. On the other hand, some who initially displayed a bold attitude suddenly show hesitation or don’t participate at all. It becomes clear that those who seem brave aren’t necessarily the ones who perform best on the wall. Often, those willing to step outside their usual comfort zone deliver a remarkable performance."

How do you support the development of team identity and a sense of belonging among the participants?
"To promote team identity and a sense of belonging, I emphasize shared experiences during the event: we take team photos on the wall, talk about what we’ve experienced, and share positive reflections. These measures help create a strong team identity by giving participants the feeling that they’ve overcome challenges together."

How do you deal with different energy levels and moods within the team to maintain a positive atmosphere?
"By responding empathetically to each team member’s needs and reacting flexibly to different energy levels, I create a supportive environment. If someone is emotionally overwhelmed, it can help to give that person a clear task to positively influence their state of mind."

Are there specific team activities or exercises used during the event to strengthen team dynamics?
"By integrating team activities like abseiling or climbing, we not only highlight the physical challenge but also the social and interpersonal aspects. Overcoming such challenges together not only strengthens team identity but also promotes the individual development of each team member."