Modern Twists on Traditional Team Building

Reconnecting as a team doesn’t have to mean the same old activities – by rethinking traditional team building, you can create a fresh, inclusive approach

Sometimes you need a little reconnection. Whether the team is celebrating a win or trying to get through a slump, engaging everyone in team activities can be a great way to refresh morale, analyse team dynamics and get everyone on the same page. But the word ‘teambuilding’ often invokes as much dread as it does excitement.

If you’re looking to boost energy and foster genuine connection, it’s time to refresh the approach. Here are some modern twists on traditional team building that ensure everyone feels included and engaged:

Switch: The Night Out for The Afternoon In

Not everyone enjoys a night out at the pub, and some may feel left out due to personal preferences, family commitments, or simply not drinking alcohol. Instead of the typical after-hours social, consider an afternoon tea or potluck lunch at the office or nearby venue. A casual afternoon gathering offers a relaxed environment for people to connect without the pressure of a night out. These types of activities can be affordable, accessible and engaging, while catering to diverse needs.

Switch: The Fun Run for The Community Clean-Up

Not everyone is athletic, and for some, participating in a sports-based activity such as a fun run can be intimidating or unappealing. Instead of encouraging physical challenges that might exclude certain team members, how about a community clean-up event? These activities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their fitness level. Think forest clearing or beach clean-ups, where the team works together for a greater cause. This not only strengthens teamwork but also helps give back to the community, promoting a sense of purpose beyond the workplace.

Switch: The Reward Scheme for The Appreciation Scheme

Traditional reward schemes often focus on tangible outcomes like targets or numbers. While it’s important to recognise achievements, it’s equally important to celebrate effort, growth and team spirit. Shift your focus from just rewards to creating a team appreciation scheme that highlights personal and professional progress. You can also introduce “Shout-Out” boards where people express appreciation for colleagues who go above and beyond, creating a culture of positive reinforcement.

Switch: Skills Building for Skills Sharing

Instead of formal skills-building workshops, which can feel like another task on an already packed schedule, try creating a skills-sharing initiative within your team. Encourage employees to share their personal skills or expertise in a relaxed and informal environment. For example, one person might offer a coding tutorial or how to create effective presentations.

This promotes inclusivity and empowerment, as each team member becomes both a teacher and a learner. Organising a monthly “lunch and learn” where team members casually teach each other something new can be a great way to enhance professional growth and deepen connections within the team while also learning skills that directly benefit the company.

By incorporating these twists on traditional team-building activities, you can create an environment where everyone feels included, engaged and valued. The key is to make team-building activities more accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their background or interests, feel connected and empowered.