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Getting Value out of Team Building Events

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Cooperation is King 


Any manager will tell you that a company is more productive when its staff work together towards common goals. This belief leads Canadian corporations to plough millions of dollars into team building events every year.

Yet, it’s no secret that many employees resent being forced to bond with each other in artificial, often childish environments. Egg-and-spoon races may have been a fun event during “Games Day” at Primary School. For those trying to further their career, however, it may seem like a waste of time.

And many team building events are overly competitive. Is getting hit in the neck by a paintball travelling 300km/h going to make you more likely to collaborate with your colleague? Probably not.
 
So how can companies get their employees on-board with team building sessions? The key is to organize an event that results in co-workers liking each other more than they did before. Hopefully, this will leave them with an increased desire to cooperate and help each other out.

This is easier said than done. But below are a few tips to get you on the right track.


Setting the Parameters


You need to start by thinking why you need to hold a team-building event in the first place.
 
For example, maybe you have new recruits that you’d like to integrate into the team. An informal social event which encourages team members to get to know each other might be best in this circumstance. Cocktails anyone?

Or perhaps your team is feeling jaded and lacking motivation. In this case, an outdoor adventure challenge which promotes collective action might be appropriate. Think assault courses.

Alternatively, if your company has recently restructured or reorganized, a day of presentations and meet-and-greets out of the office is probably your best option. Just try and avoid sterile and uninspiring hotel conference rooms!

Know Your Employees 


With your goals in mind, the next step is to choose an activity that everyone can enjoy. This where you get creative.

For example, if your workforce is particularly stressed and burnt-out, a spa day may be just what the doctor ordered. After all, most people enjoy full-body massages and unwinding in a steam room.

As Kathryn Merei, Senior Manager, Marketing, of Elmwood Spa says, “Including therapeutic treatments with their team building activities is the perfect way to ensure your workforce is relaxed and rejuvenated; our clients say they’ve had some of the most productive discussions in their corporate history here!”

Corporate sports events can also be a great way to appeal to everyone. The sports aficianados get to have playful banter while speculating who will win. On the flip side, those averse to athletics can socialize and enjoy the drinks and appetizers.

A friend of mine just had his company fly out to the 2014 Kentucky Derby. Not only were the hats, dresses and tuxedos charming, the horse she bet on (California Chrome) won! And everyone had a blast.

So, in sum, my advice is to choose an activity all of your co-workers will like. Just make sure it encourages collaboration, not competition!