Why team building is essential in the workplace

Team building is not exactly a favorite word in the workplace. In most companies, team buildings mean an awkward day or weekend with colleagues. But despite its not so stellar reputation, team building activities are important to make stronger, more efficient teams in the workplace. Here are several reasons companies should embrace team building activities. 

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Builds trust. Team building activities build trust among team members. Trust is vital in business, especially among people who work together every single day. Businesses can’t live without teams, and for teams to achieve what the business needs, team members need to trust each other so they can be comfortable working together. 

Increases collaboration among members. Team building activities create strong bonds between members. These activities encourage employees to create solutions without having to blame others for their shortcomings. 

Encourages better communication. Employees learn how to communicate their needs with these activities. It encourages them to listen to what others have to say and speak whatever it is that they have on their minds in a calm manner. 

Helps ease conflicts. People have different personalities, and these may cause disputes and misunderstandings among members. Team building activities help ease conflicts by encouraging members to know each other on a different level. 

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Patrick Lanning, Ed.D., is a leader and facilitator with a Doctorate in Leadership Education from the Oregon State University. Visit this LinkedIn page to learn more about his work.