People are the glue that holds business organizations together. Most entrepreneurs would agree with this statement, but very few are prepared to uphold its implications in practice. The main problem is that team building has earned a somewhat bad reputation. Workers are not really looking forward to something that is a tedious obligation and you cannot really blame them.
But, it does not have to be this way you know. Those who know what they are doing are in a position to real a variety of benefits. Beyond everything else, team building allows employees to escape the worries of daily hassle and immerse in boding with their colleagues.
The bottom line
Done right, team building is not a splurge, but a worthy investment. It works wonders for maximizing the most important company asset— people. Namely, it enhances collaboration, builds bridges across departments, mitigates conflicts, and builds trust and loyalty.
Therefore, it has a profound impact on workers’ motivation and satisfaction. And since these things directly affect productivity, team building holds the power to improve your company’s bottom line. Besides, there is just something utterly rewarding about entering the office with a smile and being soaked in its positive atmosphere.
Engagement and experience
To understand the value of team building, familiarize yourself with the key factors shaping employee engagement and experience. The former is well-researched, but the latter aspect is becoming ever more important for attracting and retaining talent.
People these days want more than a steady paycheck— they seek meaningful careers. Well, team building is an integral part of a swell work experience and often its most interesting facet. What is more, it is a driving force behind engagement. All in all, it improves the roles people have and strengthens connections between them.
Generating ideas
The million dollar question is how to go about team building in practical terms? Well, I would prompt you to think outside the box and explore unique venue ideas, such as zip-line, bowling, mountain retreats, and cruises. Some companies even push it to the extreme (rock climbing and rafting, for example) and face employees with their fears.
In any event, team building events need to fit your company culture, values, and mission. With that in mind, you should never make people feel like they are spending another day in the office, but with a slight twist. Likewise, refrain from heavy handing leadership lessons and selling corporate wisdom.
Adhering to best practices
Team building at its best is a consistent practice, not a one-time activity that quickly gets forgotten. You should not worry about upfront costs or missed work. Whatever you choose to do, you need to encourage people to get out of their comfort zone a bit.
Feel free to celebrate team achievements and reward top performers. Enable workers to see each other in a new light. Ideally, they let loose and things start flowing without the need for you to micromanage everything. Just do not force anyone to sit for hours, play awkward games, or listen to your self-promotion.
Propel your organization forward
Remember that it all comes down to spending some quality time together and having fun. Happiness and learning are more closely intertwined than most businessmen suspect. Amazing things can happen outside the sterile cubicle we call an office. So, make the most of the causal settings and interactions.
And when employees feel appreciated and valued for what they are, organic bonding can take place. Even when the work gets rough, people will be prepared to tackle it with renewed vigor. Companies of all structures and sizes should awaken to its potential and use it to gain a powerful edge in the market.
Lead the way forward
There is no business force as powerful as a motivated and passionate team. Building it is always an investment that pays dividends. So, make it your top priority and do not skimp. Put in creative effort and commit resources to break the barriers and obstacles that stand in the way of success.
Make it all revolve around people and bring them closer together. Keep the positive energy and enthusiasm going. Let the laughter fill the air and sense of achievement warm the hearts Rally the troops and lead a spirited charge towards your business goals in 2018 and beyond.
