Team Activities Employees Actually Like
Team building can have numerous positive impacts on your workplace, including increased productivity, better communication and longer employee retention. However, the term “team building” tends to get a bad reputation—unfortunately, there are a lot of typical team building activities that don’t cater to employees’ interests and tend to fall flat or just meet the expectations of some people on your team but not all. When you’re thinking about how to practice team building in your workplace, consider activities that cater to your employees’ interests and hobbies. The following ideas can give your team something to look forward to rather than wishing they were back at their desks in the office. Some things to consider as you plan your next event to make sure you meet a variety of people’s needs: Introverts vs Extroverts, Action vs Thought, Structure vs Creative, etc… You may not be able to cater to everyone but you should try to be inclusive of everyone on the team.
Play Board Games
Board games, role-playing games and puzzles have grown in popularity, and they can help your team practice a wide range of useful skills while having fun. Cooperative board games are particularly beneficial for team building because they will have your employees working towards a common goal. They also require clear communication and goal setting. Playing board games also is an activity you can do right in the office, which adds a note of levity to a typically buttoned-up workplace.
Attend a Class to Learn New Skills
Group classes offer an opportunity to get out of the office and explore new skills as a team. For example, taking a cooking class can give your team a chance to explore their creativity and make something great together. If you have fitness-minded employees on your team, cater to their interests by reserving time at a rock climbing gym or taking a yoga class together. If communication has been a struggle in your workplace, an improv class can be just what’s needed to get employees out of their comfort zone while inspiring some laughs and building camaraderie.
Host a Volunteering Event
Team building doesn’t have to be focused solely on your employees. You may use team building as an opportunity to get involved with your surrounding community by volunteering at a local food bank, participating in a charity race or hosting a fundraising event. If several of your employees already volunteer in their spare time, they likely will be excited to participate in a volunteering event.
Team engagement can be a challenge for employers of all sizes, but Crosworks is here to help. Contact our team to explore creative tailored options.