Ideas for Competition in Office Team Building

If you dread office team-building exercises, you have plenty of company. Approximately a third of U.S. workers dislike such activities, notes "U.S. News & World Report" in a 2012 article. Forcing employees to catch each other while blindfolded, for example, may inspire greater cynicism. However, team building can refresh commitment to a company -- if the employer takes his workers' preferences into account, whether it's offering a chance to unwind or work toward a common goal.

Educational Games

Games provide a creative way to boost morale and familiarity with a company's products. That's how Boston Beer Co. founder Jim Koch developed an annual "Beer Jeopardy" quiz to improve knowledge of his Sam Adams brand, according to "Entrepreneur" magazine's August 2012 issue. Prizes include overseas trips, which give a fun goal to meet as employees gain a deeper understanding of their industry. For a lower-key alternative, allow some time for board game competitions, such as "Trivial Pursuit," recommends "TLNT" magazine's August 2013 report. You can stick with answers from the game or tie them to specific aspects of the company.

Fitness Activities

Sports competitions are simple to run and burn off excess energy away from the office. Many employers sponsor bowling and softball teams, for example, or enter charitable running and walking events, notes American Psychological Association President David W. Ballard in an August 2012 article in "U.S. News & World Report." If your office has a pingpong or foosball table, try holding a one-day or week-long tournament, "TLNT" magazine suggests. Pair experienced players with novices, which keeps the occasion fun and gives employees the chance to know each other better.

Role-Playing Exercises

Employees shine when they get to use their imaginations, which makes role-playing activities an attractive option. For example, workers could dress up as their favorite historical figures, movie stars or rock stars, "TLNT" magazine says. Offer prizes for the best costumes. Depending on everyone's preferences, you can adapt this idea to fit favorite movies, reality shows or events. For example, consider creating an "Office Olympics" based on products that the company produces or specific tasks, such as paper shredding. Offer events of varying skill levels so everyone gets a shot at winning something.

Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts are a popular team activity that combines critical thinking with the thrill of the chase. For example, Wilmington University's new employees compete in an online scavenger hunt. Entrants must complete 25 questions about the university, based on answers gleaned from its website. The American Chemical Society's hunt, on the other hand, is a more complex affair. Approximately 570 employees of the company's Washington, D.C., office get one hour to find offbeat items, such as spoons from a yogurt shop, according to "The Washington Post." Employees must work together to outwit rivals, which helps them get to know each other better.



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