10 Team-Building Activities That Your Colleagues Won’t Dread (Yup, On Zoom Too!)
We’ve all been there: the ice breaker at the beginning of meetings that yield the driest answers, mandatory happy hours full of awkward small talk, and – the most dreaded of all – two truths and a lie.
Building a sense of harmony, respect, and belonging among team members is crucial for the success of any business. Not only do harmonious teams create systems to ensure deadlines are met and high-quality work is delivered, but they also collaborate more efficiently to solve difficult problems, feel more confident bringing fresh ideas to the table, and feel more valued in the workplace. By partaking in engaging team-building activities, colleagues can establish a deeper commitment to each other and your business.
So forget two truths and a lie because we’ve got 10 team-building ideas that your colleagues will actually enjoy:
Scavenger Hunt
By encouraging collaboration and strategic thinking, scavenger hunts are a great way to strengthen bonds between team members and allow them to practice group problem-solving in a fun, engaging manner. Whether they be in your hometown or in a new city, scavenger hunts also compel your team to explore their surroundings in a whole new and exciting way.
Cocktail Making Party | Virtual or In-Person
Instead of forcing conversation through ice breakers, one of the best ways to encourage bonding is to have everyone learn something new together because it allows for the opportunity to ask questions and collaborate. When we host mixology classes, ELP supplies guests with everything they need to prepare, mix, and shake some cocktails. Our classes are also hosted by talented instructors who walk guests through the different types of cocktails and conduct live demonstrations. Because some colleagues may not drink, it’s important to have mocktails as an alternative. At the end of ELP’s classes, guests are even sent home with recipes and parting gifts so they can continue practicing mixology at home!
Cooking Class | Virtual or In-Person
Like mixology classes, cooking classes are a fun and delicious way for team members to learn and create something new together. Whether your team is in a beautiful kitchen or in the comfort of their own home, members can join our expert chefs for lively sessions on how to prep, cook, and enjoy dishes. In the virtual format, ingredients can be provided through branded care packages delivered to their homes.
Lunch-And-Learn
On a Boat – Trade in the office for the ocean, and excite your team with a yacht outing with unforgettable views! Perfect for celebrating a company milestone or wining and dining clientele.
Picnic In The Park – Picnics are a great way for colleagues to get some sunshine and fresh air and bond with one another sans distractions. Because parks are peaceful environments, colleagues can also easily participate in introspective behavior, such as meditation and self-reflection.
Escape Room
The high-pressure environment of an escape room will force colleagues to think critically, delegate tasks efficiently, and practice collaborative problem-solving. Set in immersive and vibrant rooms, the interactive challenge typically combines a series of puzzles and riddles.
Volunteer Together
There’s no better excuse to get everyone out of the office than giving back to the community through volunteerism. In addition to supporting a local cause, volunteering can strengthen relationships and reinforce company values. Engage team members by asking around for issues they care about and unifying them under a common cause.
Paint & Sip | Virtual or In-Person
Get your colleagues’ creative juices flowing with a boozy art class! Not only will ELP supply clients with a delicious beverage of their choice, but our skilled paint instructors will provide all the necessary art supplies and walk colleagues step-by-step through the process.
Break a Sweat
If your team members enjoy physical activity, organize yoga or boxing classes, group hikes, or bike tours. Physical activity has both physical and mental benefits for colleagues, as it helps to reduce feelings of stress and improves mood and emotional wellbeing.
Game Show Night | Jeopardy | Virtual or In-Person
A game of Jeopardy is a fun and engaging way for colleagues to learn more about each other. ELP will ask colleagues to submit pictures and fun facts about themselves so that our team can create a personalized Jeopardy board. Make Jeopardy even more fun by marrying it with a lunch-and-learn or movie screening.
Corporate Retreat
Why only do one bonding activity when you could do several on a team retreat? Corporate retreats facilitate bonding and planning in a relaxed but stimulating environment, encourage creative thinking, and offer a chance for employers to affirm the company values and learn more about their staff. When colleagues feel their mental and physical health are being prioritized, they’ll feel more enthusiastic about giving their best at work. Check out this immersive weekend retreat we planned for REI in Joshua National Tree Park, where members hiked, watched a light performance, and shared smores, drinks, and conversation over a warm campfire.