Bringing a team together and helping everyone bond can be a challenge. While happy hours and lunches are common choices, they don’t always facilitate true connections. Think outside the box and try something new – you might be surprised at how well it brings people together! Here are five fun team bonding ideas you’ve probably not considered before.
1. Take a Cooking Class Together
Cooking classes are a great way to bond with coworkers. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious meal together after you’ve finished, but you’ll work together in small groups to prepare your dish. Laughing together in the kitchen and learning new skills side-by-side is a foolproof recipe for bringing your team closer together. Consider a themed class like sushi rolling, tapas, or pastry baking to make it even more interesting.
2. Volunteer for a Good Cause
Giving back is incredibly rewarding. Find a local volunteer opportunity like a beach cleanup or building houses for those in need. Your entire team can contribute their time and effort towards something positive. Working together for a good cause, without the pressure or stress of the office, is an impactful way to bring your team together. You’ll bond over shared values and hopefully have some fun along the way.
3. Organize a Laser Tag Party Rental
For some friendly competition, consider organizing a laser tag party rental. With a portable laser tag setup, you can transform any indoor space into a multi-room laser tag arena. Laser tag encourages communication and working together as a team. With 10+ participants able to play at once, a laser tag party rental is perfect for medium-sized teams. Your group can enjoy this high-energy activity that keeps people active and interacting.
4. Learn a New Skill
Instead of your typical happy hour, try getting together to learn something new. Options like axe throwing, archery, or trapeze classes are sure to get your coworkers laughing together as they learn. You can also try craft workshops like pottery painting or succulent arranging. Having shared memories of trying something new and maybe failing a few times along the way is great for bringing your team together.
5. Get Outdoors
Nature hiking, white water rafting, zip lining, or kayaking – find an outdoor recreational activity to enjoy together. Getting your team outdoors and into nature is naturally relaxing and rewarding. You’ll bond while taking in beautiful scenery and perhaps even overcoming some challenges or fears along the way. Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone alongside coworkers is a definitive team bonding experience.
When it comes to team bonding, try thinking outside the box. Look for shared experiences that are interactive, require some vulnerability, and are simply fun. Cooking classes, volunteering, laser tag, recreational activities, and learning new skills are all great options. Don’t just default to a typical lunch or after-work happy hour. Try a creative team bonding idea that brings people together in new and meaningful ways. Your team’s cohesion and performance will benefit.