We’ve all heard the phrase, ‘a happy employee is a productive employee’, but creating a positive environment where staff can thrive can be challenging. While fair pay and a culture of openness and understanding are great places to start, taking a look at your team-building strategy could be the key to unlocking a new level of workplace harmony. 

Thinking outside the box when it comes to team building days is vital; the aim is to inspire, motivate and unite your staff – so opting for activities which fire up employees’ imagination and creativity is vital. Swapping trust falls and lengthy talks for outdoor adventures, culinary experiences and creative workshops could well be the best business decision you’ll make this year. 

Here are four great benefits of switching things up for your team days this year and injecting a little creativity into the workplace. 

Team building improves problem-solving and conflict resolution
Workplace disagreements are common but should be managed effectively to avoid becoming disruptive. Allowing your team to escape the confines of the office and connect in a more relaxed environment will help combat rising tensions before they erupt into a more serious issue. It’s also a beneficial method of boosting problem-solving skills; whether they’re stuck in an escape room or working together to create communal art, they’ll learn more about each other’s strengths and weaknesses and how to take that back to the workplace. 

Employees will learn new skills
A truly effective employee day is one that combines fun with learning, and there is a huge array of options to choose from, offering dedicated team-building workshops in a range of subjects; from pottery and painting to learning how to cook fresh pasta and traditional Indian dishes, there’s an activity that will inspire and interest your staff and equip them with a host of fresh transferable skills.  

It’ll lower stress levels and boost wellbeing
It’s widely known that stress is a productivity killer and often leads to staff burnout, which can have catastrophic effects on businesses. Research has shown that engaging in creative activities lowers anxiety, boosts mood and promotes a sense of calm, so giving your employees the chance to get involved in something a little different on your team day will help to keep those stress levels in check once you’re back in the office. 

It’ll create important workplace bonds
Time spent together outside of the office is a whole different experience from snatched exchanges at the water cooler and in weekly meetings. Team-building days with outside-the-box themes will spark bond-building conversations about shared interests, hobbies and goals, bringing everyone together and fostering a sense of unity.