A team that gets along well works better together, right? That’s certainly our motto. With that said, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite team building activities that you’ll want to try out with your team. And don’t worry, they’re all free or cheap, so they won’t break the bank, either!
Let’s get right into our favorite team building activities that your employees will actually be excited about.
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
If your business is in a busy part of town, it’s likely that there are some hidden spots that your employees haven’t had a chance to check out just yet. Think about which places they’d enjoy the most, such as a great view a few blocks up or have them ask the employees at neighboring businesses funny questions to foster a sense of community on your block. Be sure to mix up teams with new hires and veterans, so everyone can get to know one another. The crucial part here is to have a prize that everyone would enjoy. Gift cards are great if you have a lot of new people on your team, otherwise something a bit more specific would also work.
Support Your Local Sports Team
On a nice afternoon going out to a game could be a great team building activity. The sports team doesn’t have to be in the top of their league for it to be a fun outing. You can close up shop early, carpool over, and tailgate before the game. Make it a potluck so everyone can bring and share their favorite dish.
Go Bowling or Try Mini Golf
Divide your employees into teams and get the friendly competition going. Often if you go on off-peak days or times you can get a solid discount on the regular rate. Ask teams to pick names and coordinate the color they’ll be wearing to get them excited to go head-to-head with their coworkers.
Host a Cook-Off
If you work in a restaurant or cafe, having a cook-off could be a fun way to showcase your employees’ skills while still making time for team building activities. You could make it Top Chef (or any other popular cooking show) themed and have some servers and cashiers act as the judges. This might be a useful way to find new dishes for your menu, if a team comes up with something really innovative. Make sure to get some trophies for the winning team to give them something beyond bragging rights.
Have a Game Night
Sometimes the simple things are the best. Poll your employees on their favorite games and have people bring in the top ones that emerge. Bring in some tasty food and drinks and you’ll have a great night in the works.
Plan a Picnic or Barbeque
When the weather is nice, team building activities that get you outside can boost everyone’s spirits. Reserve a few barbeque pits or tables at the nicest park in town and don’t forget to bring a ball to throw around, a speaker, and some sunscreen.
Go on a Hike
If you have an outdoors loving crew, a group hike may be an opportunity to experience something beautiful all together. Make sure to test out a few trails first and know exactly how difficult they will be. Present your team with a few options of varying difficulties and get out there! Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and water for your crew.
Team building activities don’t have to make your team groan. These are just a few ideas, but involving your team in the decision making process is always a great idea. They might come up with suggestions that you might not have thought of.
Happy team building!
If you’d like to simplify the employee scheduling, timesheet, and communication process at your business, sign up for Homebase for free here.
Remember: This is not legal advice. If you have questions about your particular situation, please consult a lawyer, CPA, or other appropriate professional advisor or agency.
