For many, team building activities conjure images of treasure hunts in the local park or worse, outward bound activities involving rope courses and other physical challenges.
If the goal is to promote team building among employees, the type of activity must be an all-inclusive one that staff will enjoy or, at least, attend.
Katie Morrell of American Express recommends first identifying what is to be achieved from the team building activity. A physically challenging outward bound trip might be appropriate for a young, fit and energetic sales team. But it will scare the living daylights out of 90 percent of US office workers. Is the goal to increase competitiveness or camaraderie?
If the goal is to improve communication and interpersonal relations, a more sedate exercise could diversities and preferred methods of working and communicating. For example, in a neutral location conduct diversity training such as the Myers-Brigg personality test.
- Host a brainstorming event to seek feedback from staff such as ideas for improving processes or where to focus investment. This type of event should include a frank discussion about the company’s direction, strategy, and future goals. It is crucial to take positive action on the suggestions from staff so that they can see that their opinions are respected.
- Hire a motivational speaker. The American Program Bureau features professional speakers such as David Breashears, a filmmaker, adventurer, and mountaineer who scaled Everest twice, and who recounts his team’s challenges and courage on the deadliest day in the history of Everest’s climbing expeditions.
- Poll employees and ask them what they would like to do. Perhaps offering more than one option could be a possibility as long as there is a core exercise in which everyone can participate. Expect some work that involves team building activities, but treat staff to a day out or a meal afterwards. David Krevitt of Huffington Post states that group outings or lunches are effective in promoting collaboration and camaraderie.
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