We have seen team building activities have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many companies investing in them with the aim of improving the performance of their teams. But do these activities actually work, and how do they improve performance? In this article, we will answer this question, based on our own experience and give some insights on how team building activities can benefit businesses.
The short answer to the question is yes, team building activities do work. At one level, we know that to be true based on the testimonials we get from satisfied clients. Here is a selection:
At another level, there have been a number of academic studies into the effectiveness of team building activities, one of which was conducted by the University of Central Florida.
It found that team building activities can have a positive effect on both individual and team performance. The study also found that team building activities can improve communication, increase trust, and boost morale within a team.
A further study, this time by Just Eat for Business, who researched over 200 UKP- based companies in 2021 found that team building activities were also very popular. The survey reveals that 75% of workers say they would enjoy their workplace more with more regularly scheduled team building events.
It is important to note, however, that team building activities are not a magic solution to all team problems. They should be used in conjunction with other strategies to improve team performance, such as training and development programs, clear communication channels, and effective leadership courses.
In what areas can Team Building Improve Performance?
Here are some of the key benefits of team building activities:
- Improving Communication
Team building activities can help improve communication skills by providing opportunities for team members to practice active listening, give and receive feedback and express their ideas and opinions in an unpressurised environment away from work.
For example, at Bright Vision Events, we offer a range of team building activities that focus on improving communication, such as “Bridge the Divide” and “Communication Breakdown.” These activities challenge teams to work together to solve problems and communicate effectively to achieve their goals. Take a look at this article about Team Building and Communication.
- Building Trust
Trust is the foundation of any successful team. Team building activities can help build trust by creating opportunities for team members to get to know each other on a personal level and develop stronger relationships.
For example, Our Mastermind Creation is a team building activity that encourages teams to work together to create a piece of art. This activity requires trust and collaboration, as team members must rely on each other’s skills and expertise to achieve their goal.
- Boosting Morale
Low morale can have a negative impact on team performance. Team building activities can help boost morale by providing opportunities for team members to have fun and bond with each other outside of work.
For example, “It’s a Knockout“, one of our most popular events is a team building activity that involves a series of physical challenges and obstacles. This activity is designed to be fun and entertaining, while also promoting teamwork and collaboration.
- Encouraging Innovative thinking
Team building activities can encourage innovation by providing opportunities for team members to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.
For example, our “Outside the Box” is a team building activity that requires teams to solve a series of puzzles and challenges using their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, but first they have to work out how to get the challenges out of a locked box and are given only 4 clues to help them do so. This activity encourages teams to think creatively and produce innovative solutions.
- Fostering Inclusivity
Inclusivity is essential for any team to function well. Team building activities should be designed to be inclusive for all team members, regardless of their background or abilities.
For example, our “The Dragon’s Apprentice” is a team building activity that simulates the experience of running a business. This activity is designed to be inclusive for all team members, as it requires a range of skills and expertise, including sales, marketing, and finance.
Team Building Activities do work
From our own experience, the feedback from our clients as well as studies and surveys by businesses and academic institutions, we know that team building activities can be an effective way to improve team performance, communication, and morale. As part of a wider plane that includes training and development programs, clear communication channels, and effective leadership within the business.
By incorporating team building activities into company culture, businesses in the UK can create a more collaborative and productive work environment, leading to better performing teams and improved outcomes. The choice then simply becomes what activity you want and whether you want an indoor or outdoor team building activity. Both have their merits, of course, take a look at this article about the 7 benefits of using indoor team building activities for corporate events.
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