How to Create Team Camaraderie Without Playing Kids Games

Don't rely on childish games to build your team camaraderie.

A team that reaches its potential usually shares a camaraderie, whether it's a sports team or a corporate group. Unfortunately, many team-building exercises are childish and silly, relying on tug-of-war games or trust falls to build long-lasting relationships. For many teams, the camaraderie built is short-lived, if it was ever there at all. Smart team building starts with mutual respect and inclusion. Of course, sometimes you just can't get everyone to join in.

Instructions

1. Develop a language that is inclusive of all team members. Effective language removes the hierarchy that exists, at least in terms of reference. Referring to the team as a whole, not individual parts, helps each person feel as if his contribution matters to the end goal. Using words like "we," "team" and "partners" instills the right spirit.

2. Establish a team activity that involves everyone. This could be a regular bowling night, a casino night in which the organization provides transportation, or an internal contest not related to work. When people feel included, they are more likely to open more lines of communication and offer help above and beyond the call of duty.

3. Celebrate victories together. This can be social, such as a team member having a baby. It can also be directly related to the team goals. Bring lunch in for the group or have a night out to dinner that includes the entire team.

4. Do charity work together. Groups can either organize an event to help a local school or have a team goal of reaching so many dollars raised for a particular organization such as the Walk for Breast Cancer. The Leaders Institute even suggests taking a childish scavenger hunt and maturing it to have team members seek out items that a local charity needs: new plush toys, blankets, canned food items.

Tips & Warnings

• Despite all your efforts, some people will continue to estrange themselves from the team for whatever reason. A one-on-one talk with each of these individuals may help the situation. If it doesn't, encourage everyone to continue to include these workers when possible. In the end, if they are getting the job done and not interfering with others' ability to work, then give them space.

References

• Team Building Inc.: Celebrations
• Leadership Institute: Camaraderie Quests
• Wilderom: Initiative Games