Theories suggest that the current cost cutting mode in many companies may be a temporary hold to allow for market caution to pass whilst we await UK budget decisions and the US election outcomes. Uncertainty, however, can be very destabilising to a company’s workforce and the feeling that the good times are over can have a negative impact on staff moral. 

Creative social events are key for boosting team spirit and there are a variety of team-building ideas to help develop friendships that last and contribute to a positive workplace. These activities are best carried out on company time. 

Games event– Whether it be a sport’s games morning or afternoon with ping pong, giant Jenga, crazy golf or ten pin bowling, nothing strengthens team bonds like a bit of friendly competition. Although as a former international fencer, I enjoy competitive sports more than most, do go easy on the competitive bit as it is not to everyone’s taste so keep it light-hearted. 

 Adventure – How about a scavenger hunt or escape room. Problem solving activities are a wonderful way to get the teams working together in a way they don’t in work and again they don’t need to take all day or eat into the evening.  

A company hike or charity ramble. – Step out of the claustrophobic confines of office walls and into the fresh open air. Get employees away from their desks and into a shared adventure. Enjoy the outdoors, the fresh-air, fun and natural camaraderie. This will promote physical and mental well-being as well as some team building. It does not need to be a strenuous hike, and a gentle stroll may be a perfect pick me up for your next work social event! 

Environmental activism – As employees work side by side to restore local parks or contribute to environmental causes, they build bonds that mirror their care for their environment. It is also a fantastic way to do some corporate good in your community. Collective clean-ups at a local park or beach, planting trees or creating community gardens, Participating in recycling or waste reduction programs. 

 A bake off – Loads of fun, takes only an hour or so of employees’ time. Everyone bakes a cake at home and brings it in. Prizes / awards for best decoration, best texture, best flavour. Can be done in smaller teams or bigger teams and form a coffee morning only impacts an hour or two of the workdays. 

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