It can be challenging to build workplace morale when people are struggling with the demands of the job. After all, modern working life places heavy expectations on everyone, and it can be difficult for teams to bond when they are under constant pressure to deliver in their roles.
Organisations struggle too with the best ways to build a high-performing, cohesive workforce. Training is necessary but expensive, and other workplace benefits can also put pressure on budgets without necessarily giving the returns employers want.
Why team building events work
One of the most time-honoured and effective ways to bond a team together is to allow everyone to spend time off-site. This can be run in a formal and facilitated way, doing exercises and activities that relate to the function of the business and the team overall.
Options for team building events
It can also involve doing something fun and completely non work-related. For example, many companies now organise volunteering sessions for their teams. These have several advantages. Firstly, they let teams work on useful and valuable projects that encourage them to communicate, solve problems together and think in new ways. Secondly, they actually benefit the wider community. And thirdly, they don't require the cost of a commercial team-building event. Arguably, participants also enjoy volunteering activities more, as they see a purpose to the work.
Corporate team-building events with a guide and commercially delivered agenda used to be very popular in the past, but they are perhaps less in vogue now. Firstly, they are expensive, and secondly, many employees view them with a touch of cynicism. That's not to say that they cannot be delivered to have value and purpose, however - the trick is to find the right activities that genuinely cause bonding and group dynamic breakthroughs.
Events of this nature can and should be tailored to the team in question and consider the people involved. If they are working on games to build a team, they can incorporate elements such outdoor time or physical activity, which can be enjoyable and memorable. For example, team-based treasure hunts, orienteering or similar 'hunt' activities can be fun and accessible for everyone if planned in the right way.
How to organise the right team-building event
Firstly, understand the purpose of the event and consider your budget and desired location. Ask how much time you have to give to the event and whether it is being designed to solve a specific problem or simply on-board a new team and foster relationships. This is a good starting point to decide what you could do. You can then organise an event with a specialist provider with expertise, resources and contacts in the field to maximise the results and return on your time and financial investment.
There is great value in well-designed team events if you put in the planning work and time first for the best results.
Opmerkingen