Team building is a technique that has been used to create an environment that encourages and values the contributions of team members. The theory is that when all of the members combine their energies toward problem solving and maximizing the resources of the team, goals can be met more efficiently, therefore increasing the bottom line.
Recently, there has been a trend occurring that focuses on team bonding. Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between pleasure and productivity. Business owners are beginning to understand that teams are more successful when they have fun.
There are several organizations that organize team bonding events. These range from hosting contests that emulate television programs to outdoor survival adventures. For instance, one such company offers a cook-off competition that helps team members negotiate, prioritize, communicate, and problem-solve as they compete in a culinary challenge. Another involves a progressive dinner that encourages networking and mingling, while building communication skills.
The process of team bonding encourages team members to learn how to manage conflict, evaluate group performance, and provide feedback and support that encourages each member to reach their highest potential. In a team-oriented environment, every member contributes to the overall success of the organization. While each person may have a specific job function, everyone is unified to accomplish the overall objective.
Team bonding games and activities help build teams, develop employee motivation, improve communication skills and are fun. They can be used to warm up meetings, improve trainings, liven up conferences and enhance business projects.
Team bonding programs should be focused on strengthening certain characteristics including:
•
High level of interdependence among members
•
Development of mutual trust
•
Improvement of communication skills
•
Ability to establish goals
•
Encouragement of creative-thinking
Team bonding events provide a safe place to test out new ideas and concepts of how to work together as a team. When working with an organization that offers team bonding events, seek out one that actually understands the importance of team dynamics in the business world.
There are a variety of ways to develop team bonding events. The most practical way is to use the services of a professional team bonding company. Seek out a company that has a long track record of success and who will create a program specific to your needs.
If you decide to create team bonding events in-house, there are numerous books and Web sites that offer step-by-step guides to help you achieve your desired result. When you create an event that is fun and educational, your employees will more readily retain the information and be able to quickly implement their newfound skills.
