Posted by Baylee
To bond or not to bond! That is the question. Team building has been given a historically bad reputation. There are always mixed feelings in the workplace about whether team building is essential or not. I’m here to tell you that it is, and it’s actually very important.
There are so many benefits to team building that it’s something your company should think about incorporating. Most team-building exercises aren’t considered to be anything more than a one-time activity. They are done and then forgotten, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. Team building can be anything from short term problem-solving activities to a retreat lasting a couple of days. Here at Pulse, we believe that team building is essential to include in our work life. It improves many different aspects of an employee’s journey at the company.
While I’m sure this list could be added too, in my experience, these are five main benefits of team building in the office.
1. Improved Motivation
Increased motivation will create a successful company culture. When something is completed it gives a sense of momentum and makes the team feel good about themselves. This increases employees’ confidence not only in themselves but in their team’s ability to work together to accomplish a goal.
2. Increased Collaboration
Collaboration is about knowing who has what knowledge and trusting your co-worker’s knowledge based on their experiences. This helps with building relationships and developing networks outside of their day to day role that can help them in their future endeavors.
3. Encourage Creativity
In order to have a successful business, you need to employ a variety of people with diverse perspectives and different areas of expertise in order to explore fresh ideas. Unique team-building tasks give employees opportunities to use their imagination and come up with creative solutions. This can spill over into their work for the company as well.
4. Improved Communication
Enjoyable, fun activities allow employees to get to know each other, and creates a better understanding of each other to help break down walls. It encourages coworkers to focus on what they have in common rather than the differences.
5. Positive Reinforcement
Team building exercises can also be used to provide recognition to employees highlighting the work that specific employees are doing. This also shows the employees that you are invested in them and care about their success.
What company wouldn’t want to improve its employee’s motivation, communication, creativity, and collaboration? The most memorable team building events are the ones that don’t feel like a day at the office. Team building is the most important investment you can make for your company and your employees. Think again before deciding that team-building exercises aren’t the right thing for your company. A simple team exercise such as a team walk or fun activity once a week can noticeably improve the atmosphere at work.
Sources:
https://blog.sodexoengage.com/rewards-recognition/the-benefits-of-team-building-activities
https://www.jobmonkey.com/employer-insights/benefits-team-building-work/
https://www.upliftevents.com.au/blog/advantages-team-building-activities/
https://www.corporatechallenge.com.au/12-benefits-team-building/