Slovakia
Of course, employees still appreciate fun and an escape from routine, but they also crave stimuli that help them grow, share experiences, and feel like they're part of something meaningful. That's why team building is becoming a space where a company can show its culture in practice. "Today, employees expect development, growth, and real contribution to everyday work from team events," says Lívia Bachratá, Director of Public Affairs at Edenred.
What does your team need?
The foundation of a well-organized team building is understanding what will really help the team. This can often come from the team building itself. However, a sure bet is a concept called microlearning – short, interactive workshops or activities that are both fun and rewarding. They allow employees to learn something new, for example how to communicate effectively, manage stress or resolve conflicts. These are skills that the team will use every day and at the same time strengthen relationships between colleagues. Moreover, the short format does not take away from the fun, on the contrary – it strengthens them.
Those who feel good perform better.
Inclusion is also an important aspect of any modern team building. Not everyone is the type to enthusiastically throw themselves into team games or group discussions. Introverted or neurotic colleagues may feel insecure if they are expected to socialize excessively. "Therefore, the program should be designed so that each employee can choose the level of involvement that is comfortable for them. An environment in which no one feels pressured, but on the contrary, has the space to be themselves, creates the foundations of trust and respect throughout the team," continues L. Bchratá.
Mental health should not be forgotten either. Teambuilding is an ideal opportunity for activities that support wellbeing. For example, joint yoga, breathing exercises or meditation are a signal that the company values its people not only as professionals, but also as human beings. When an employee feels heard, respected and mentally balanced, his work performance naturally increases.
The online team is also part of the team
In the era of hybrid work, colleagues who work remotely cannot be forgotten. Teambuilding should also be open to them, and not just symbolically. Online formats, interactive platforms and live streams can ensure that even those who are not physically present are involved. This deepens their sense of belonging and prevents isolation, which is a common risk of remote work.
After the team building event, there should be one more important step – a meaningful evaluation. Instead of long and complex questionnaires, a few simple questions will suffice that capture the essence: what appealed to people, what helped them, and what they would like to repeat.
An experience that transforms a team
Feedback is not just a formality. If handled correctly, it can significantly affect the atmosphere in the team and the quality of future events. "Teambuilding has the potential to build strong teams and mutual trust, which is reflected in everyday working life. At the same time, it is an opportunity for a company to show that it cares about its people not only professionally, but also personally," emphasized L. Bachratá.
Modern teambuilding is therefore not just a trip or a form of relaxation. It is an excellent tool that can connect, develop, inspire and motivate. And if it is well designed, it becomes an experience that has a profound impact on the individual, the team and the entire corporate culture.
