Building a cohesive team that works well together is a bit of an art. It takes a great company culture, a lot of communication, and yes, those team building exercises that employees seem to love to hate.
The truth is, team-building/trust exercises can be a bit awkward. Let’s face it. The “trust fall” exercise is overdone and cliche--and more than a little blase. At the end of the day, will it really help your team work better together?
But team-building exercises--done right--can be vital activities for improving effectiveness and productivity and increasing the fun factor. By getting your team talking, laughing, thinking or solving together, you can improve the office environment and your business success.
That said, we’re going to just go ahead and ditch the “trust falls” and pull out a more exciting list of ways to get your team to connect and work together toward a goal.
Without further ado, let’s jump right in to strengthening your team.
Sport leagues, sporting games or outdoor activities
If your team if full of athletic or outdoorsy types, why not start a sports league or initiate periodic activities for all to take part in together? Whether launching a walking group, a softball or bowling league, biking up a mountain or jogging after work, you can cut through the boundaries of cubicles and get your team talking and getting to know one another. Not only will it be a great happiness booster, but it can help your team stick together.
Trivia night
Those James Bond Casino Nights have nothing on your Office Trivia Night. Designate a time and place, then encourage your team to brush up on their random knowledge of the world--or of your workplace. This can be useful for ensuring that every employee is well-versed in your company, and also able to work with others to come to a ‘final answer’.
Volunteering
Does your company support a charitable organization? Or do you want to infuse a culture of giving into your company? Find local organizations that your team cares about, or one that aligns with the values of your company. Then as a group, go do some good. Helping others will boost your team’s good vibes and help them feel a part of something greater than themselves.
Chariot racing
This is a fun take on soapbox racing that will strike the fancy of history buffs and competitive spirits alike. Designate or build a race course, then separate your employees into teams to assemble a working chariot. But skip the horses, and designate team members to take on the roles of equines and charioteers, then race to glory and victory--and success.
Literary circle
This might not seem like your traditional team-building exercise but trust us--it can not only help your team become more analytical and read between the lines, but facilitate healthy group communication and listening skills. Encourage your team to read the best books, expand their mindS and build critical communication skills while having fun.
