Category: Team Building

8 Best Office Christmas Team Building Activities And Party Ideas To Promote Teamwork
Team Building
November 24, 2021

8 Best Office Christmas Team Building Activities And Party Ideas To Promote Teamwork

It may be seven months away from the most wonderful time of the year, but it won’t hurt if, as early as now, you already have a plan for your Christmas team building activities. Planning early allows you to think of the activities thoroughly and customize the same to enable participants to learn lessons as they go through the activities. You can also make each activity count by strengthening your team’s camaraderie and teamwork. You see, the best way to incorporate valuable learnings is by adding them as lessons to be learned in fun activities. 

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How To Organise Outdoor Picnic And Games For Group Activities In Melbourne
Team Building
October 18, 2021

How To Organise Outdoor Picnic And Games For Group Activities In Melbourne

Outdoor group activities offer a fantastic opportunity for corporate professionals to break away from the confines of the office and foster team cohesion, collaboration, and morale. Organising an outdoor picnic and games session can be a refreshing change of pace and an effective way to rejuvenate your team.

In this article, we'll explore how to plan and execute a successful picnic and games event for outdoor group activities, ensuring maximum enjoyment and bonding among participants.

Why Choose an Outdoor Picnic?

An outdoor corporate picnic offers a relaxed setting for team members to connect on a personal level. It's a chance to step away from the office environment, indulge in delicious food, and engage in enjoyable activities.

Here's why picnics are a great choice for outdoor group activities:

  • Quality Time: Teams can bond in a comfortable and enjoyable environment, fostering stronger relationships.
  • Inclusive: Suitable for large groups, including families and children, making it a versatile option.
  • Entertainment: Games, prizes, and engaging hosts add to the fun atmosphere, keeping everyone entertained.
  • Mood Boost: Fresh air and sunshine naturally uplift spirits, creating a positive atmosphere for team bonding.
  • Reflection: Outdoor settings provide opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth.
  • Personal Touch: Customisable to suit various budgets and preferences, ensuring a unique experience for your team.
  • Inspiring Environment: The great outdoors inspires teamwork and self-awareness, making it ideal for group team building activities.

Organising a Corporate Picnic

The annual corporate summer picnic or excursion is already a tradition in many companies, and it is a great opportunity to get creative and innovative to provide your employees and their families with a fantastic experience. We have put together a few simple tips for organising a memorable corporate picnic and outdoor group activities!

1. Choose the Right Venue

The first step in organising an outdoor picnic and games event is selecting the perfect venue. Look for spacious outdoor locations such as parks, gardens, or recreational areas that can accommodate your group size comfortably. Consider factors like accessibility, amenities (such as restroom facilities and picnic tables), and the availability of shade to ensure the comfort of your participants.

2. Plan the Picnic Menu

A well-planned picnic menu can elevate the outdoor experience for your team. Opt for a variety of easy-to-eat, picnic-friendly foods such as sandwiches, salads, fruit platters, and snacks. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences when planning the menu, and don't forget to include refreshing beverages to keep everyone hydrated throughout the event.

3. Organise Team Building Activities and Fun Games

Incorporate a mix of fun games and team building activities to keep participants engaged and entertained. Pick from Jenga, Cornhole, Hula Hoop Contest or even add some silliness with Minute-to-win-It type of games.

Our recommendation is to plan genuine team building activities with the actual picnic and further activities to follow. This way you will make great use of your team finally getting together as well as ticking a massive box off your team building strategy list. Nothing beats teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills followed by a casual setting with delicious food and drinks as a reward.

4. Prepare Necessary Equipment and Supplies

Make a checklist of all the equipment and supplies you'll need for the outdoor picnic and games event. This may include picnic blankets, coolers, disposable plates and utensils, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and any game materials or props. Ensure that everything is packed and ready to go before the event day to avoid any last-minute rush and missing things.

5. Create a Schedule and Itinerary

Outline a schedule and itinerary for the outdoor event, including the timing for arrival, picnic setup, games and activities, breaks, and departure. Communicate the schedule to participants in advance so that everyone knows what to expect and can plan accordingly. Be flexible and allow for spontaneity, but also ensure that the event runs smoothly and on time.

6. Encourage Participation and Team Spirit

Promote participation and team spirit throughout the outdoor picnic and games event. Encourage friendly competition, cheer on teammates, and celebrate achievements and milestones. Foster a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and included, regardless of their level of athleticism or experience.

7. Capture Memorable Moments

Don't forget to capture memorable moments from the outdoor event through photos and videos. Assign someone to be the designated photographer or videographer, or encourage participants to take turns documenting the experience. Share the photos and videos with the team afterwards as a keepsake of the fun and camaraderie shared during the event.

8. Reflect and Debrief

After the picnic day, take some time to reflect and debrief with the team. Discuss what went well, areas for improvement, and any insights or learnings gained from the experience. Use this feedback to inform future outdoor events and continue to strengthen team dynamics and collaboration.

9. Don't Bring Up Business 

If you need to address an issue, bring it up at your next team meeting or organise a special session. This picnic is all about celebrating, appreciating, and having a good time. Yes, it's OK for the boss to make a speech, but make sure the message is kind and personable. Save the "let's hit our objectives" motivational speech for another day. Bond with your team and have a fun time with outdoor group activities. 

Conclusion

Organising a picnic and games event for outdoor group activities is a fantastic way to promote teamwork, boost morale, and foster camaraderie among corporate professionals. By following these tips and guidelines, you can plan and execute a successful outdoor event that leaves a lasting impression on your team and strengthens your organisation's culture of collaboration and unity.

Urban Quest specialises in providing team building experiences that are seamlessly tied into your picnic and other outdoor group activities by way of tailoring start and finish to accommodate your choice of a park!

Contact us to learn how we can assist you in elevating your picnic with team building activities for corporate groups of all sizes in Melbourne.

Importance Of Group Activities To Maximise Teams Performance
Team Building
June 28, 2021

Importance Of Group Activities To Maximise Teams Performance

Empowered employees are the key differentiator for organisations seeking strategies to make their business increasingly lucrative and profitable. But how can you keep your employees motivated?

Novalease CEO Hayes Thomas suggests group activities such as corporate team building for the workplace to maximise your team's performance. According to him, "Fun team building activities are an effective approach to help your employees to collaborate and perform at their best. Unfortunately, many organisations ignore great bonding activities given the cost or time commitment. Only the most successful organisations appreciate the value of it and love the long benefits."

Any company or organisation will thrive if it values its employees and encourages the development of competence and teamwork. Here are some of the advantages of team building group activities for the workplace and the ways they can maximise teams' performance.

Improve Physical Health

Offering your employees a day away from their desks is a fantastic way to promote their physical wellbeing. Engaging in team building group activities provides a refreshing break from the monotony of computer screens and phone calls.

Encouraging physical health among employees is vital for business success. By participating in energising team activities, employees can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of illness-related absences.

Improve Mental Health

Problem-solving activities and recreational activities are both beneficial to people's mental wellbeing. You will earn a marked improvement in self-esteem and confidence by showing that you are responsible and accountable for accomplishing tasks.

Getting out and participating in fun team building group activities is also an excellent way to clear one's mind and feel much happier, both of which positively affect one's mental health.

Outdoor team building group activities are also helpful in relieving stress and anxiety, which will help employees perform better at work.

Assist In Assembling The Ideal Team

Building a successful team starts with having the best employees onboard. Competent team members excel when working together, adapt to different work styles, and collaborate effectively.

Team building activities further enhance employees' competency in their roles and foster positive relationships among team members, minimising conflicts that can hinder productivity.

Creating a friendly work environment through team building group activities not only strengthens camaraderie but also boosts overall work performance. When colleagues get along well, they're more motivated to work together towards common goals, leading to greater productivity and success.

Provide Positive Reinforcement 

Boost morale and acknowledge employees through engaging in group activities at work. Celebrate teamwork by playing games that highlight collective efforts and positive behaviours. These activities also provide an opportunity to reinforce your company's values and recognise individuals for their contributions to the organisation's success.

Encourage Better Communication

Enhanced communication among employees is a key benefit of effective group activities. These activities enable workers to build stronger relationships, gain deeper insights into their colleagues, and overcome barriers of distrust.

By focusing on shared experiences rather than differences, team building fosters better communication and collaboration among team members, leading to a more cohesive and productive work environment.

Aid In Delivering Appropriate Guidance

For a workgroup to thrive and achieve peak performance, effective project guidance from managers and supervisors is essential. Team building activities in the workplace provide an opportunity for leaders to hone and apply these crucial skills.

A skilled manager demonstrates precise instruction during team activities, outlining clear objectives, measurable metrics, and deadlines. Similarly, team leaders may delegate specific tasks to individual team members as part of a team building game, considering each member's unique strengths and performance.

By practising project guidance skills in the context of team building group activities, managers and supervisors can cultivate a collaborative and high-performing work environment.

Buck Up Productivity Improvements

Employee engagement in fun group activities improves communication and teamwork, which has a favourable impact on production. Moreover, collaborating on a shared purpose reduces duplication of effort, reduces friction and pushback, and enhances employee productivity.

This is among the most sought-after objectives when companies invest in team building activities.

Boost Employees' Morale

Improved workplace morale is also one of the foremost advantages of group activities for the workplace. A motivated and upbeat staff that feels cared for will spread that vibe across the company, making it an enjoyable place to work.

Morale-boosting team activities and games may help workers break through barriers and provide supervisors with ideas on developing and maintaining a positive work environment.

Accelerate Workflow

Cohesion within a company is vital for successful collaboration among team members. Engaging in challenging tasks as a group helps foster enhanced chemistry and trust among coworkers, leading to improved cohesiveness within the team.

Additionally, when employees participate in enjoyable group activities together, they are less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviour and become more open to each other's perspectives. As a result, fostering teamwork through regular fun group activities can significantly enhance a company's workflow speed by strengthening cohesiveness among its employees.

Encourage Learning From Team Members

When employees interact as a team within a company, they have the opportunity to learn from each other. This learning extends beyond personal experiences and includes sharing insights about different departments' constraints and opportunities.

For example, if the marketing team consistently makes unrealistic demands, colleagues from other departments may help them understand why these expectations are unreasonable through teamwork and collaboration. This exchange of knowledge and perspectives among coworkers from diverse backgrounds contributes to a more informed and cohesive work environment.

Drives Motivation

Participating in anything new and exciting, such as an amazing race with a twist in Melbourne, boosts employee motivation since they know they are valued and rewarded accordingly.

This boost in motivation should enable boost production, morale, and trust in one another's abilities.

Identify And Intensify Leadership Qualities

Engaging in team building group activities allows executives and managers to identify leaders within the workplace. These leaders demonstrate effective problem-solving skills and provide support to their teammates when tackling assigned tasks.

During team games like the "Blindfold Shape Game," leaders showcase their ability to communicate effectively with team members and strategize to find the right solutions. Through such activities, executives and managers can recognise individuals who possess natural leadership qualities and may be suitable for future leadership roles within the organization.

Ensure Individual Accountability

Implementing a strategy where each individual is accountable for the group's success is among the most effective ways to enhance work performance. Similar to the structure seen in professionally organised group team building activities, establishing internal guidelines ensures that every team member fulfils their responsibilities, contributes equitably to the task, and meets all deadlines.

Moreover, engaging employees in enjoyable group activities fosters a sense of accountability and reduces instances of under-contribution or failure to complete tasks on time. This proactive approach helps maintain high levels of productivity and ensures that the entire team can effectively meet its objectives.

Two Together Beats One

Certainly, when two individuals collaborate on a task, it typically requires more labour hours compared to when it's tackled solo. However, the virtues and skills cultivated during team building group activities prepare employees for such scenarios.

Interestingly, studies have revealed that individual performance often improves when working alongside others. Research indicates that the productivity of a less efficient worker can increase by an average of 10% when collaborating with a partner or working in a group setting.

Encourage Creativity

Participating in group team building activities like Urban Quest in Melbourne can inspire employees to tap into their creativity through several activities that are part of each Urban Quest experience. During such activities, teams face a variety of imaginative and artistic challenges, pushing them to think innovatively and express their creative talents.

Encouraging employees to embrace creativity can have a profound impact on a company. When employees feel empowered to think outside the box and tackle challenges creatively, they bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.

This not only fosters a culture of innovation within the organisation but also enhances problem-solving capabilities and promotes collaboration among team members. Ultimately, fostering creativity among employees can lead to greater productivity, increased morale, and overall success for the company.

Innovative ideas may keep a business ahead of the competition and offer endless possibilities.

Increase Employees’ Confidence Levels

Engaging in fun team building activities can have a significant impact on employees' self-confidence and their trust in their colleagues' abilities. When employees participate in enjoyable group activities, they gain a sense of accomplishment and develop trust in their teammates' skills and capabilities.

As employees build confidence through these activities, they become more willing to share their innovative ideas and collaborate with their team members. This increased confidence enables them to take on new challenges and responsibilities, knowing that they have the support of their colleagues to help them succeed.

Ultimately, boosting employees' self-confidence and trust in their coworkers fosters a positive work environment where individuals feel empowered to contribute their ideas and work collaboratively towards shared goals. This not only enhances teamwork and productivity but also contributes to the overall success of the business.

Amplify Sense Of Responsibility 

Participating in fun group activities during team building sessions can significantly amplify a sense of responsibility among employees. In these activities, every member of the team plays a crucial role, and their contributions directly impact the team's success. This dynamic emphasises the importance of individual responsibility and accountability within a group setting.

As employees engage in team building games and activities, they become more aware of their role in achieving common objectives and understand the consequences of not fulfilling their responsibilities. This heightened sense of responsibility is valuable in the workplace, where individuals are expected to contribute effectively to team projects and initiatives.

By experiencing the importance of responsibility firsthand in a fun and interactive setting, employees are more likely to carry this mindset into their work environment. They become more proactive, reliable, and committed to their tasks, knowing that their contributions are essential for the team's success.

Overall, fostering a sense of responsibility through engaging group activities can lead to improved teamwork, productivity, and overall organisational success.

Open Doors For Trust

Establishing trust among coworkers is crucial for effective teamwork and collaboration. Fun group activities play a vital role in fostering this trust by providing employees with opportunities to understand each other on a more personal level.

During these activities, employees engage in various challenges and tasks that require teamwork and communication. As they work together to overcome obstacles, they learn about each other's strengths, weaknesses, and interests. This deeper understanding helps build trust among team members, as they develop a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.

When employees trust their coworkers, they are more likely to collaborate effectively on tasks and projects. They feel comfortable sharing ideas, seeking help when needed, and working towards common goals. This trust also leads to increased job satisfaction and higher levels of performance, as employees feel supported and valued by their team.

Overall, fun team building group activities provide an ideal platform for employees to bond, build trust, and strengthen their relationships. By fostering a positive and supportive work environment, these activities contribute to improved teamwork, productivity, and overall success within the organisation.

Cheer Up Respect

Participating in problem-solving activities and fun team building exercises can significantly enhance the level of respect among employees. Through these activities, team members witness firsthand the support and capabilities of their colleagues, which fosters a greater sense of mutual respect.

When employees collaborate on tasks and challenges, they come to appreciate the unique skills and qualities that each team member brings to the table. This recognition leads to a deeper respect for their coworkers' abilities and contributions. Additionally, when individuals rely on one another to overcome obstacles and achieve shared goals, they develop a sense of trust and admiration for each other's capabilities.

Lots Of Fun!

Creating an enjoyable atmosphere among coworkers and teammates can benefit employees in various ways, from reducing employee turnover and sick leave to increasing efficiency and performance. Team building is a great deal of fun, and it's an incredible opportunity for employees to see a different side of their coworkers than they would see at work.

However, team building group activities are more than just a fun day out of the office - they're an essential aspect of the business and are effective strategies to motivate your employees.

More Ways to Improve Team Performance With The Help Of Urban Quest

Boosting a team's performance and productivity is akin to baking a cake - each ingredient (team member) must be carefully selected and blended. Just like a well-mixed batter, a diverse mix of components is necessary to empower your employees to excel.

While there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to enhancing productivity, creating a fun and creative work environment can lay the groundwork for success. By offering consistent support, and constructive feedback, as well as engaging your staff in enjoyable yet meaningful activities, you can cultivate a culture of productivity and collaboration.

Urban Quest, renowned for its expertise in team building group activities in Melbourne, has helped numerous companies and organisations create happier, more cohesive, and highly productive workplaces through its innovative programs.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to reap the benefits of team building activities - invest in your team's success today!

Talk to our representative, and let's plan your next team building session! 

Bringing The Workforce Back To CBD: How To Spread Positivity With Team Building Activities
Team Building
June 15, 2021

Bringing The Workforce Back To CBD: How To Spread Positivity With Team Building Activities

About over a year ago, COVID-19 constrained many businesses to allow work-from-home employees. Now with COVID cases declining and vaccination rates on the rise, the possibility of going back to old office regimens appears to be more realistic.

Given the situation, the City of Melbourne is increasing its commitment to having employees return to work safely as a significant leap in supporting businesses.

According to Lord Mayor Sally Capp, Melbourne City employs 1602 people. So their physical move back to work will become a vote of confidence for the city's economy.

The Lord Mayor says, "The City of Melbourne is ready to return 100% of our working population to on-site work whenever it's reasonably safe to do so. Nevertheless, while health and wellbeing will always come first, we want to send a message to our central business district business owners that we recognise the importance of city workers in keeping our heads above water."

Rapid Biz CEO Audrey Bergen takes the Lord Mayor's announcement as a silver lining. She seconded the motion saying, "We've looked into a variety of options to help our employees feel more secure when they come back to work. For example, we searched for team building activities in Melbourne to help with our employee's physical and mental health. Also, in open workspaces, we installed partitions, and directional signs were placed on the floor to regulate traffic. In addition, our air filtration systems are upgraded, and sanitisation facilities with hands-free sanitisers to maintain cleanliness and sanitary conditions are in place."

Under these circumstances, plus the uncertainties facing employees, the challenge is high for employers to spread positivity, incorporate fun team building activities for the workplace, and encourage and support their staff as they report back to the office. 

If you're like a cat on hot bricks wondering how to do that, be at peace, for Urban Quest will show you how. The key is engaging, positivity-filled, safe, and, more importantly, fun workplace team building activities.

But Why Workplace Team Building Activities?

According to the State of the Australian Workplace report, businesses with highly engaged employees are more successful. In essence, the upper 25% of successful companies around Australia have substantially higher production efficiency, profitability, client satisfaction ratings, and lower employee absenteeism and turnover. 

Yet, how will you boost employee engagement if 70% of the Australian workforce says they're feeling "actively disengaged"?

Worthwhile activities for team building in Melbourne provide opportunities for your employees to be engaged, optimistic, and trust each other. In addition, it can remove the cold air and foster strong bonds between employees.

Besides, the State of the Australian Workplace report further emphasised that having a supportive colleague at work increases engagement by 50%. On top of that, someone with best friends as workmates is seven times extra engaged in what they're doing.

Furthermore, suitable office group activities can also help:

  • Improve your employees' communication skills.
  • Encourage collaboration.
  • Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your team.
  • Boost employees creativity
  • Instil trust and a sense of belongingness in your employees.

We've compiled some of the best and most effective DIY team building activities you can try to spread positivity and encourage and support your employees as they get back to the office post-COVID.

If DIYing is not your thing then reach out to us to learn about how Urban Quest can assist and run one of its established experiences for your team.

DIY Team Building Activities And Game Ideas For Work

Office Makeover

Since the office has been left empty for quite a long time. Why not let your employees give their workspace a make-over but with a team-building spirit?  Allow team members to work on the office makeover in groups. Ask each team to think about how they'll accomplish the project, but don't expect everyone to spend a lot of money. Remind them to maintain a budget-friendly office revamp. Team members should include small items such as greenery, wall art, photographs, or anything creative and positive. The group with the most innovative, work-conducive, and safe workspace will be declared the winner.  

Office Makeover played as team building games is very much about collaboration and creative thinking. The team became optimistic, more decisive, and motivated as a result of this activity. Plus, the staff will ideally adapt to the workplace environment and have a more positive vibe.

Office Trivia Game

Interesting trivia games aren't limited to students at school.  These fun team-building activities and game ideas for work will put your team's workplace knowledge into action and help to clear the fog for employees when they get back to the office. 

Start by making a list of workplace trivia questions and see which group gets the most answers correct. Next, try typing the questions into a document but leave an area blank for the participants to fill. It would also be fun if you also push a live quiz in which you read the specific question aloud, and the one who gives the correct answer earns the point. The game is won by the group (or employee) that makes the most points.

This team building activity improves problem-solving skills, and understanding of your company's culture, and is just downright fun!

Blind Drawing

Blind drawing involves two players sitting back to back. One player is given the word or an image on a piece of paper described to the other player. The other player has no idea what the word or image is but will draw the word or image based on the other player's description. The team with the best guesswork will be hailed the winner.

The goal of blind drawing is to assess how well two people can communicate, interact, imagine, and encourage innovation.

Scavenger Hunt

Take your team on a Scavenger Hunt, if possible, at a nearby location such as a park, zoo, or theme park. Provide each group with clues that will eventually lead them to the reward at the end. Scavenger hunts as team building activities and game ideas for work will help you lift everyone's spirits and find more intelligent use of the available time. In addition, it will encourage the participants to get to know one another and have a great time together!

The goal of a Scavenger Hunt will be to assess your team's problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Or better yet hire professionals to do that for your team.

Barter Puzzle

Jigsaw puzzles aren't just about entertainment; they also help with problem-solving, alertness, and brainpower. By completing the jigsaw barter puzzle, your employees will be allowed to make intelligent decisions and learn to work together.

Splitting your team into equal-sized groups is the first step. Each team then receives a unique jigsaw puzzle of comparable difficulty. The extra twist is that some of the puzzle pieces are in the pile of another team's puzzle set.

Each team's goal is to finish their puzzle before any of the other teams. Moreover, they must persuade the other teams to surrender the missing bits through barter, deal-making, group member exchanges, or donating time to another team.

Because teamwork is required to complete the task, the barter puzzle encourages discussion and engagement. Furthermore, team building games such as the barter puzzle bring out your employees' best negotiators and strategists. 

Category Line up

To get started with one of the best team building games, participants in each team will line up and arrange themselves according to the category given. For example, on birthdays, considering their birth months, members will line up according to whose birthday comes first, then so on and so forth. 

The twist is that the members of the team should not talk with one another. That means they'll have to figure out each other's birthdays using sign language. Think about fun categories to spice up the activity. Doing this team-building activity will aid in problem-solving, interactions, and teamwork.

Mannequin Challenge

If you want something that exudes positivity, the mannequin challenge fits very well into the list of fun team building activities for the workplace. It allows you to include everyone and be creative. 

Start the challenge by forming groups of 6-7 people. Then, invite each team to create a Mannequin-styled clip telling a story and publishing it on your business's social media sites using the hashtags #Freezeit. or #Mannequinchallenge. The entries that count the most engagements on social media win the contest.

The significant goals of these team building games, such as the Mannequin challenge, are encouraging positive vibes,  communication, creativity, and team spirit.

Karaoke

Did you happen to know that singing is perhaps the best team-building activity available? Karaoke, when done as one fun office group activity allows employees to bond more quickly and more effectively than traditional ice-breakers. So, let your hair down and show the world who you are— a Rock And roll fan!

To sprite up these fun office group activities, your team should go to a karaoke bar or use karaoke apps to sing in the office. Though there are no hard and fast rules for karaoke, it's highly recommended to choose songs that challenge all age groups. Also, though you should showcase your abilities, try not to brag too much.

This fun team building activity makes it possible for coworkers to understand and bond with one another.

Murder Mystery Dinner Party

A typical murder mystery game starts with one of the guests secretly playing a murderer, and the other guests must figure out who is the perpetrator.

Have your employees dress up in theme and prepare a dish for the mystery dinner party venue (which could be the company's office).

Following the directions on your preferred murder mystery scenario,  name tags, waypoints, and suspect case files will be distributed. Allow the staff to collaborate to figure out who the whodunnit criminal is.

These utterly immersive office group activities improve critical thinking abilities, foster teamwork, and are fun.

Video Game Tournament

if you believe video games are only there for fun., I hate to tell you, but you got it wrong. Video games as workplace team building activities are demonstrated to enhance cognitive function, concentration, and efficiency. Even if you aren't a gamer, you can listen to the games' soundtracks, which have been shown to stimulate the brain and keep people fired up at work.

To get started, get a video game system for the office to show that you're into gaming. Then, make your video game selection, keeping the focus on tasks that require player collaboration, such as Halo,  Just Dance, or Rock Band, for an additional physical exercise bonus.

Next, try implementing a weekly video gaming break or arranging a video gaming contest after office hours.

When treated as workplace team building activities, video games have been shown to improve employee morale in adults because they are engaging and stimulating.

Photo Finish

Use chalk, sticky tape, or rope to draw a finish line. Group your employees into teams and for the photo finish, have each team arrive at the finish line. They'll plan out what would be the perfect pose to showcase the most picturesque finish line photo.  The challenge will need team members to work together for this activity to be a positive experience.

Photo finish is one example of pretty good workplace team building activities for improving team planning, collaboration, and positive team spirit.

The Ultimate Egg Drop

Another one at the top of the list of team building activities and game ideas for work is The Ultimate Egg Drop. Start playing the game by giving each team raw eggs and a stack of office supplies. Allow each group around 15-30 minutes to use the materials provided to create a contraption that would hold the egg from crashing or breaking. 

Do you need some supply suggestions? Tape, marker pens, straws, disposable cups, packing material, papers, paper clips, and other items come to mind. When the timer goes off, have the teams drop their egg contraptions off from a height to see which one survives. Workplace team building activities such as The Ultimate Egg Drop's goal is to understand the importance of effective collaboration.

Follow The Leader

These are the kind of fun team building activities for the workplace that requires your complete team to function as one. The game works by following a hidden leader who will make basic gestures for the whole group to imitate. Of course, someone else, the guesser, will have to figure out who the hidden leader is.

The guesser is picked from the group and leaves the scene for a short time. The gang chooses a leader when the guesser is away. This individual will create moves that the followers will imitate  (pat their head, sway their hips, pinch their nose, etc.). Once the guesser returns to the room, he or she will observe the group's actions to determine who the leader is.

Follow the Leader as one of the fun team building activities for the workplace improves nonverbal communication, collaboration, trust, team cohesiveness, and leadership.

Fun Team Building Activities To Kick-Start Your Back To Office Day With A Bang

Mind-blowing fact: The more engaged your staff are, the more successful your business will be.

Positivity is effective because it improves overall coping skills and strengthens resilience. Sure, there are days when encouraging positivism and a positive outlook seem unattainable, but understand that you can recognise the good in every circumstance. For example, spreading positivity through fun team building activities for the workplace will boost your thinking and help others develop theirs. Remember, employees who are happy and always positive are more creative, imaginative, and devoted than disenchanted. They're also expected to stay around in the long run

Urban Quest made it a mission to help companies, businesses, and organisations create the happiest and most positive working environment possible for you and your team to flourish in.

We believe you can improve your team's optimism, engagement, and happiness with a bit of love and a little elbow grease. So contact us, and let's bounce back together. Better days are coming. 

Remote Team Building: 10 Virtual Games & Activities for Teams
Team Building
February 16, 2021

Remote Team Building: 10 Virtual Games & Activities for Teams

The health guidelines introduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic have forced most companies to embrace the remote work setup. Because gatherings of many people in the same place at the same time are limited, to engage in team events Melbourne companies have created virtual arrangements.

Max Funding's Financial Consultant Shane Perry notes, “Remote team building workshops for corporate groups are crucial to encourage collaboration in a team. Virtual games allow them to improve their strengths, identify weaknesses, and provide continuous learning while having fun. Remote team building is a necessary expense because its positive impact can be felt throughout the organisation.”

1. Virtual Urban Quest

Typically, Urban Quest would be your best bet for remote team building events in Melbourne. It is an interactive race played in the streets of Melbourne’s Central Business District by teams of 4-6. The event lasts for two hours and is filled with riddles and fun challenges.

So as a complement to remote work arrangements, the Urban Quest team have come up with the game's virtual setup. It is known as “Mission Impossible”.

Urban Quest’s “Mission Impossible” is a remote team building challenge! A Virtual Secret Agent Mission where you are challenged to complete a range of increasingly elaborate online problems, virtually navigate to international locations, connect with secret agents in the field and use your wits on the web to propel your team to victory!

In a race against the clock, teams compete against each other to be the fastest to complete their Mission. Using Zoom and the Urban Quest gaming platform, you are challenged to solve a range of online problems. Teamwork will be the key to success.  All tasks are based on problem-solving and logical thinking. Use your knowledge or any internet resource to help your team race to the finish.

To start the game, you only need to book with the Urban Quest team. Let them know your preferred date and time, and after receiving the booking confirmation, you can now invite your team and have fun!

2. Two Truths, One Lie

Nothing is more exciting than knowing the quirky truths about your colleagues. The “Two Truths One Lie” game is a classic favourite in team events in Melbourne. It is known for its simplicity because it doesn’t require any materials. Though this game might need a few deduction skills, and maybe some wild imagination!

To play the game, all the team members should write three statements about themselves - wherein two are facts, and one is a lie. The members of the team take turns in reading and guessing the truths and lies.

The player with the most number of correct guesses wins.

This activity not only allows your team to get to know each other more, but it can also leave people rolling in laughter!

3. Pictionary

Pictionary is a popular activity among remote team building events in Melbourne because it can develop creativity and get the most out of your teammates. Members will draw based on the word provided. No letters, gestures, numbers, or verbal cues should be used in playing this game. Teams only need to guess the word that best corresponds to the picture being drawn by the other player.

A virtual room like Skribbl or just a pen and paper during a conference video call is all you need for this activity. You could even use a random word generator to come up with the next word to draw.

4. Favourite Things

This activity is a great icebreaker for your online team events in Melbourne. The manager or facilitator can decide on a topic, which can either be work-related or personal.

To make this remote team building more fun, tell your teammates to search for a photo that signifies their favourite thing about the chosen topic. Then, the members of the team take turns sharing their favourite things with the group. Since there is no wrong answer, this activity is more relaxing and isn’t anxiety-inducing. Not only will it eliminate prejudices, but it can also teach you a thing or two about each other. When one member learns that the other shares his/her interest in something, they’d be encouraged to converse - and that’s an excellent start!

5. Virtual Coffee Breaks

Working continuously for multiple hours can be quite exhausting for most employees, which is why there is a need for short breaks.

For this remote team building activity, you can schedule 15 minutes for your team to join a video chat while enjoying a cup of coffee. This activity can allow your team to catch up with each other, the same as when they are in the office. If you want it to be more realistic, why not add a water dispenser in the background?

You can do this in between meetings or regular working days, depending on your team’s availability. Make a deal not to talk about work during virtual coffee breaks.

6. Birth Map Game

To start with the game, share a Google Map link with your group. Then, ask your team members to place a sticker on a map indicating the place of their birth. Next, each of the team members shares a fun fact or story about their birthplace. At the end of the activity, the team votes on who shared the fascinating story. You can offer to give the winner a prize, such as a gift card. It’s an effortless game that can be incorporated into remote team building workshops in Melbourne.

You can also modify this game and make it into your favourite vacation spot, dream destination, etc.

7. Team Movie Night

Movies have always been a source of relaxation because they can be so entertaining they let you forget about all the problems in the world. For team events, movie time can induce relaxation and strengthen levels of camaraderie at work.

You can send a poll to your team to decide what movie to watch, or your team members can take turns choosing the movie genre. To spice up the movie options, you can check the must-see films your team should not miss and then stream it using a conference video call. It can also be watched using Teleparty, formerly known as Netflix Party. Ask everyone to bring popcorn and soda or be in their pyjamas - just like a real movie marathon at home.

After watching, you can take turns in sharing brief reviews about the movie.

8. Photo Challenge

The Photo Challenge is ideal for new teams because it allows each member to get a glimpse at each other through certain photos.

For this activity, the manager creates a challenge at the start of the week. It can be “the cutest pet of the week” or “the quirkiest photo of a child.” The team takes turns in sharing their photo and a brief story about it.

Not only will you know something about your team, but it can also spark their creativity. Moreover, each image can stir positive emotions and offer a chance for the office jokesters to shine. It’s also an opportunity to get to know the more introverted members of your team.

9. Virtual Charades

Charades never go old in team building workshops. When integrated into your team meetings, it can bring a lot of laughter. This game - the same as Pictionary - needs little to no preparation, making it more convenient for teams to play.

To play the game, form two separate teams that will compete with each other. Upon deciding on a theme, each team member acts out an object or a scene. To make it more fun, choose hilarious topics.  A point will be given to the team of the first person who can guess the correct answer.

Each player takes turns acting out until the time limit. Each round can be timed for two or three minutes, and the team with the highest number of correct guesses wins the game. As a rule of the game, players assigned to act out are not allowed any verbal cues. You can use an online random word generator or the online platform Pantoparty with this game.

10. A Peek Into Each Other’s Homes

This activity can be likened to shows like House Hunters and MTV Cribs, where team members are asked to show their houses to their colleagues and is one of the popular team events in Melbourne.

For this activity, ask one member each week to take a video of his home and share their favourite things about it. While it can be a hilarious way for a team to get to know each other’s personalities, this can also blur indifferences between team members.

You can also modify this activity and make it into a peek into each other’s workspace, fridge, or closet.

Conclusion

The options for remote team building events and activities are endless. You can always be creative and modify the games mentioned above to your liking.

The relaxation and sense of camaraderie that corporate team building fosters can translate into increased productivity, fewer absences, and less turnover. So, turn your team into a well-oiled high-performance engine now by signing up at Urban Quest.

Urban Quest is a tested and proven ready-made solution for team events in Melbourne. No matter how big or small your group is, the age, fitness level, or industry you come from, we deliver the maximum engagement level leaving no one behind. Digital technology allows us to track an individual from team performance, generate reports, and provide a one-of-a-kind experience.

Group Activities Melbourne: Spread Fun and Positivity at Work
Team Building
February 11, 2021

Group Activities Melbourne: Spread Fun and Positivity at Work

The past year has been challenging for everyone in your team. Some had to adopt a remote work arrangement, and others had to let go of some beloved tasks. There were no gatherings in the break room, no banter in the hallways, and no after-work hangouts for a while. Some team members inevitably feel a bit detached from others. 

Shane Perry, a small business loans consultant at Max Funding, believes in the importance of group activities. He explains, “Team building activities for groups can help restore the sense of camaraderie, trust, and positivity at work. With these, it will be more comfortable for team members to perform and excel together.”

Here’s your go-to list of fun group activities in Melbourne that are easy to organise, plan and execute:

Urban Quest

After months of quarantine, everybody’s craving for an outdoor experience. Now that restrictions have been eased, your team can participate in an exhilarating outdoor team event - an adventure around the Melbourne CBD! 

Urban Quest is a fierce outdoor competition that involves solving puzzles, cracking codes, and exploring the city of Melbourne - with each challenge it becomes slightly more challenging as the teams get closer to the trophy. It uses technology to ensure that social distancing will still be observed throughout the game. All participants will be connected through their devices, and the event's planning is aligned with the government's health protocols. 

Urban Quest is a top-rated group activity that kickstarts the players with purposefully designed physical and mental challenges. Just imagine it as a personalised version of The Amazing Race but in the beautiful city of Melbourne!

Urban Quest provides a range of activities for large groups and is experienced in team building group activities in Melbourne.

Group size: 10 and above (subject to social restrictions)

Time: 2-2.5 hours (including pre-event instructional session and post-event awards)

Mode: Provided by Urban Quest

Cost: from $40 per person

The Mind Field

This game can be performed during short breaks or after office hours because it only lasts for 15 to 30 minutes, perfect if you’re after short group activities. Simply find an open space, e.g., a park or an empty parking lot. You can also do this at the beach!

Scatter objects, such as balls and bottles, across space—the more disorganised, the more exciting.

Ask everyone to pair up. If possible, pair people up with members from different departments. One person should blindfold the other, then using verbal instructions only, a person without a blindfold should guide the other from one side of the space to the other. The blindfolded person must avoid the objects and is not allowed to speak.

The Mind Field is a game that focuses on effective communication and trust. 

Time: 15 to 30 minutes

Number of participants: 4 or more (as long as the numbers are even)

Mode: DIY

The Perfect Square

This group activity is competitive but in a less exhausting way. Ask your team members to form a circle while holding a piece of rope. Have them put on a blindfold, set the string on the ground, and walk away from the circle. Then, ask them to come back and form a square using the rope while on blindfolds. To make it more competitive, set a time limit.

Perfect Square improves leadership and communication skills. Team members will learn to trust each other when they rely on one another to navigate in the right direction.

Time: 15 to 30 minutes

Number of participants: 5 to 20 people

Tools needed: Blindfold for each participant and a long piece of rope.

Mode: DIY

Game of Possibilities (Charades)

This 5-minute team building activity is an excellent mental warm-up. Instruct your colleagues to form smaller groups. Give an object to one member of each group. That person should go in front and act out the object given to them. The rest of the members must guess what the object is. The actor is not allowed to speak. Choose wacky objects to inspire a bit more creativity.

Time: 5 to 6 minutes

Number of participants: 6 or more

Mode: DIY

The Egg Drop

This is one of the most engaging team building activities for groups that encourage problem-solving abilities and teamwork. Because this game is more fun when there are more participants, it is suitable for corporate team building events. Just make sure you have extra eggs because you’ll probably break a lot.

Split your workmates into teams of 3 to 5 people, and give each group an uncooked egg. Prepare some items in a pile. These may include newspapers, rubber bands, straws, pencils, etc. Each team must build a contraption from the items from that pile to prevent the uncooked egg from breaking when it drops. Drop an egg down each contraption from 6 feet up. The group with the egg that didn’t break wins!

Time: 1 to 2 hours

Number of participants: 4 and above

Tools needed: uncooked eggs and assorted disposable items.

Mode: DIY

Update (3/4/2024): After reviewing this article, and this activity in particular we, here at Urban Quest, unanimously agreed that we do not support unsustainable activities, which this one is. Use it at your own risk. 😀

Scavenger Hunt

This is one of the classic DIY group activities that guarantees fun no matter the group size. In a scavenger hunt, the team will be broken down into two or more groups. Stray away from typical tasks and make a list of silly ones. These may include taking a selfie with an animal, bringing the biggest shoe, etc.

Give the list to each team and set the deadline. Whichever team completes the most tasks, wins! You may also want to set a point system depending on the task difficulty.

Scavenger Hunt can be a great way to make team members work with colleagues from other departments or social circles. It’s a great, cost-effective and creative option when looking for group activities. 

Time: 1-2 hours

Tools needed: pen and paper

Mode: DIY

Update (3/4/2024): we know that creating a truly engaging experience is not an easy feat. That's why we exist as a business. If you want this activity to be run professionally and leave lasting memories instead of eye-rolls contact us.

Blind Drawing

When looking for group activities or the perfect corporate team building activity, you want to make sure everyone is interacting with each other and using a different part of the brain that they are not used to.

Ask everyone to pair up. Two participants should sit back-to-back. Give one person a picture and the other a pen and paper. One should trace an image of the chosen object on their team member's back while they in turn will try to recreate it on the back of the person in front of them. The person with the pen and paper should draw based only on the verbal description of the other. Choose quirky pictures to make it more fun.

Time: 10 to 15 minutes

Number of participants: 2 or more people

Tools needed: Pen, paper and pictures.

Mode: DIY

This is Better Than That

Choose four or more different objects or similar objects that look different from each other. Split the team into even numbers. Create a scenario where all the participants must use only the chosen objects to solve the problem. For example, “You’re stranded on an island in the middle of nowhere.” or “An alien species is invading Earth.” Ask each team to rank the objects based on their usefulness in the scenario and explain their reasoning.

This is a light team building game that inspires analysis and creativity. Just remember to make the scenarios challenging enough so that the participants can be truly challenged.

Time: 15 to 20 minutes

Number of participants: 2 or more

Tools needed: Four objects or more

Mode: DIY

Truth and Lies

Sometimes when looking for the perfect group activities, you need to look no further than the classics. Some schoolyard games or corporate icebreakers can be ideal activities for large groups in Melbourne.

Have everyone sit down in a circle. Each participant must share three things about them: two are facts, and one is a lie - in random order. Others have to guess which are the facts. A tip: encourage the participants to tell a lie in the most realistic way possible.

This is a good choice for group activities for small to medium-sized groups. It is recommended for new teams because it eliminates snap judgments about each other. It also gives members who are less sociable a chance to share facts about themselves and learn more about others.Time: 10 - 15 minutes

Number of Participants: four people or more

Mode: DIY

Truth or Dare

Truth or Dare is one of the all-favourite team building group activities. In this game, everyone should form a circle with an empty bottle in the middle. One person will spin the bottle and when it stops, the person seated where the tip of the bottle points should choose between truth or dare.

If they choose the truth, the person who spun the bottle should ask a question. If they choose to dare, the person who turned the bottle will ask them to do something. The person choosing will be the next one to spin the bottle.

Before the game, it’s essential to set the limitations for truth or consequence. For example, all questions can be personal but shouldn’t include relationships, financial status, or any other sensitive information. The tasks may be limited to singing or dancing.

This is an effortless team building group game that can easily become hilarious if your team is up for it.

Time: 15 to 30 minutes

Number of participants:  5 or more

Tools: an empty bottle

Mode: DIY

Bottom line:

Team building is one of the most important investments you can make for your people. It may not be instantly apparent, but this activity can have significant benefits to your entire organisation. Group activities, in Melbourne or anywhere, are vital to keeping employees happy and engaged.

First, it loosens up everyone. The bloopers, the quirky challenges, and the physical work get rid of stress.

Second, it eliminates prejudices. The more your members get to know each other, the more comfortable they become working together in the same organisation - which can translate to increased productivity.

Third, it conveys a message that you’re determined to foster healthy relationships in the office. This can result in fewer absences, fewer conflicts, and less turnover.

If you’re unsure how to organise regular team building activities, contact Urban Quest. 

We offer emotionally charged team building group activities organised professionally.

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