Your ultimate summer team building guide
It’s common sense, and the research backs it up: companies made up of team members that like and appreciate one another, communicate effectively, and work well together will enjoy increased productivity, effectiveness, and success. It’s getting there that’s the tricky part. As a leader, one of your most difficult tasks is keeping everyone happy. Seemingly little things in the office like strained communication and interdepartmental tensions can eventually start to eat into your bottom line if they’re not addressed.
Proactively nipping these things in the bud is the best policy, and a tried-and-true method for dealing with them is the famous (but also sometimes dreaded) team building event. We’ve all been to eyeroll-inducing team building events before, and trust us, those lame events are entirely avoidable with the proper thought and planning. The key is just to not treat the event like a chore and let the fun grow organically. Follow these easy steps to have your team running in sync like a well-oiled machine.
You don’t have to go big
We’ve all seen pitches from team building-gurus who tour the country giving inspiring speeches for five-figure sums, and while they can be good in the short run, what they offer more than anything is generalized common sense that applies to just about any company. You know your company’s needs better than anyone, and can devise a team building solution that both addresses your particular challenges and fits the personality of your office. If you’re a civic-minded group, maybe that means coordinating with a local park for a cleanup and beautification project.
Get outside
In the summertime, the sunshine can be your greatest asset. If there’s a way to hold your event outside, even if it’s just for an hour or two, go for it. It’ll improve morale and make everyone eager to buy in. After all, everything’s better when you’re not under fluorescent lighting!
Food, food, food
Most forms of bribery are frowned upon in the American workplace, but a bit of food-based motivation is universally accepted as a good idea. A catered lunch is a no-brainer to accompany any team-building event. If you’re going to be outside, booking a food truck is always a perfect option. (Just sayin’, we know a guy…)
Mix it up
Every office has its cliques, but your goal is to get people out of their comfort zone during the event. Don’t shy away from assigning groups or seating that bring people together who don’t normally interact.
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