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| Photo Credit : wikimedia.org |
For any group of people working together with a common goal, chemistry between the individuals is one of the most important factors for success. It’s one thing to get a group of people together that possess the right skills to get the job done, but to operate at maximum efficiency and productivity requires that this group work together well.
Team building is about promoting strong working relationships between members and group activities can go a long way in helping to create these kinds of bonds.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular team building activities in Australia and examine why they are effective.
After-work drinks
The tradition (if you will) of getting together for a few beers after work is as old as the hills. While it might seem obvious, it allows for the release of tensions and gives workers a good way to celebrate a job well done. It can go a long way in establishing healthy friendly relationships between bosses and employees. In fact, studies show that a boss shouting drinks for employees can significantly improve worker productivity. The effect this has on team chemistry should not be understated.
Where to do it: Any local pub! All you need to do is figure out who’s buying the first round...
Where to do it: Any local pub! All you need to do is figure out who’s buying the first round...
Hiking/Camping
Outdoor activities where team members go through a journey or sometimes even a physical struggle together always promote positive team building.The emphasis here is having everyone rely on each other in some way and developing patience and understanding between members of the group. Ultimately, hiking, camping and even hunting together develop team work above all else.
Of course it’s all about having fun too!
Where to do it: There are many organisations that offer these services including Earth Sanctuary in Alice Springs. Here you are provided with guided tours in the outback with a range of activities available.
Of course it’s all about having fun too!
Where to do it: There are many organisations that offer these services including Earth Sanctuary in Alice Springs. Here you are provided with guided tours in the outback with a range of activities available.
Sporting events
Light competition between peers is usually a good thing - it gets the heart racing and increases confidence. Sports of all kinds are appropriate for team building, although we’d generally recommend non-contact sports including basketball, volleyball, even go-kart racing!
Where to do it: Most major cities and towns have sporting facilities available. Check out Red Balloon for some good ideas.
Where to do it: Most major cities and towns have sporting facilities available. Check out Red Balloon for some good ideas.
Cooking
Team cooking days are very hands on and are great for a laugh. Generally these are a lot of fun and the interactive nature of cooking together allows for team work, creativity and a bit of pressure too. Depending on how the day is set up, you can have team members compete against each other or simply take a lesson together.
Where to do it: Cheeky food Group offers team cooking activities all over Australia and New Zealand. Contact them for more info.
Where to do it: Cheeky food Group offers team cooking activities all over Australia and New Zealand. Contact them for more info.
Board games
Board games come in all shapes and forms and they are very cheap and easy to organise wherever you are. Charades is a popular one and allow coworkers to get silly and do something they probably associate with their childhood.
Where to do it: All you need is a table and chairs
The importance of team building is something that can by overlooked by many businesses but the positive affects are enormous. Above all else, a good working environment makes the team happy being around each other.
