SHOULD MANAGERS AND SUPERVISORS GO FOR TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES?

Yes, they should! Read on to find out why!

Have you been wondering how you can play a role in boosting your team’s productivity, improving the workplace environment and culture, and generally ensuring that everyone works well together? 

Yes, there is a secret sauce to make all that happen, and that is…team building activities. Or, to be more specific, your participation in these events alongside your team.

Not completely convinced of that?

Stick with us as we delve into why and how your taking part in these activities can be a game-changer in boosting your team's performance.

Why team building activities matter

Team building activities play a crucial role in any workplace. From trust-building to improved communication and giving workers a morale boost, the direct benefits of these events are many.

All of which creates a more cohesive and motivated workforce where individuals feel valued and supported, resulting in increased creativity, higher productivity, and a thriving work environment.

And these can be highly thrilling and enjoyable events where everyone can cut loose and have the time of their lives - as our blog on busting team building myths explains!

Why managers and supervisors should take part in team building events

Deep in conference over the next step…

When the leaders step up and engage in team-building activities, they're not just playing games.

They're leading by example, showcasing their leadership style, and learning from each other and their team members.

This participation can significantly influence team dynamics and inspire others to step up their game as well.

Buckle up as we explore the benefits in greater detail!

Showcasing leadership styles

Each leader has a unique style, and team-building activities provide a platform to showcase it.

By observing and learning from each other, you can collectively refine your leadership approach and inspire your team.

Building stronger relationships with the team

By engaging in team-building activities, you can foster deeper relationships with your team members. 

It's an opportunity to get to know each other beyond the professional sphere, break down walls, and build stronger bonds.

Improving how you communicate with everyone

Better communication is a major perk of team-building activities. It's not just about speaking; it's about listening, understanding, and connecting on a deeper level. 

And, as they say, communication is key in any successful team.

In fact, improved communication is a key reason why even small businesses should go for team building events!

Enhanced morale and job satisfaction

Who doesn't want a happy team? When you actively participate, it can significantly boost team morale and job satisfaction. 

Happy team members are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and fostering a strong and resilient team.

Better problem-solving skills

Last but certainly not least, team-building activities like escape rooms can drastically enhance problem-solving skills. 

They challenge you to think outside the box, make decisions under pressure, and work effectively as a team, all of which are essential skills in the workplace.

Case study: Escape room team building for team leadership

The aftermath of an escape room team session. They don’t look too displeased, do they?

Escape rooms, like those at our Chicago escape room, are thrilling problem-solving adventures.

Teams are given a mission and must work together to solve puzzles and escape the room within a limited time. 

It's a test of communication, collaboration, leadership, and quick-thinking skills, all packed into an exhilarating experience.

Various skills that are tested and improved through an escape room game

Escape rooms put a variety of skills to the test. From communication and collaboration to critical thinking and problem-solving, the challenges push teams to work together and think on their feet. 

But don't worry, it's all in good fun, and every challenge is a learning opportunity.

Have actual teams benefited from Fox in a Box’s team building events?

We've had numerous teams, including their managers and supervisors, take on our escape rooms and come out with improved team dynamics. 

Teams have reported better communication, enhanced problem-solving skills, and an overall boost in team morale after the experience.

Tips for managers and supervisors taking part in team building activities

As we wrap up, here are some tips for managers and supervisors to maximize the benefits of team-building activities.

Ensure that everyone feels included

Inclusion is vital to any team-building activity. As a leader, your role is to ensure that everyone gets a chance to participate and showcase their skills. 

Remember, the aim is to foster unity, not divisions.

Encouraging open and honest communication

Encourage your team members to express their thoughts and ideas freely. 

This can be a golden opportunity to understand their perspectives and strengthen the bond within the team.

Embracing challenges and learning opportunities

The true value of team-building activities lies not in winning but in the lessons learned along the way.

Embrace the challenges and use them as stepping stones towards creating a more cohesive team, where even the selection of songs that match the escape room atmosphere can enhance the collaborative spirit.

Showcasing a supportive and collaborative attitude

Lead by example. Show your team that you're not just their boss but also a team player who's ready to support and collaborate. 

This will set the tone for the rest of the team and foster a more supportive work culture.

Frequently asked questions

From what skills you can develop as a team leader to how often you should organize them, here are some of the queries many team leaders and managers have about participating in team building events alongside their team.

Should managers participate in team building activities?

Absolutely! Managers aren't just the decision-makers, they're part of the team, too. 

By participating in team-building activities, managers can strengthen their relationships with their team, enhance communication, and foster a sense of camaraderie. 

Plus, it's a lot of fun – who wouldn't want to crack codes in an escape room or complete a challenging puzzle as a team?

What skills can managers and supervisors develop through team building activities?

Team building activities aren't just for kicks, you know. They are a veritable training ground for essential workplace skills. 

Managers and supervisors can enhance their communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. 

They also get a chance to demonstrate their leadership styles, learn from their team, and develop empathy. 

In an escape room situation, for instance, they'll need to think quickly, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team to solve puzzles and escape the room.

What type of team building activities are most effective for managers and supervisors?

The effectiveness of a team building activity depends largely on the team and the context. However, activities that promote problem-solving, communication, and collaboration are particularly effective.

Take our escape room games as an example. 

They put teams in challenging situations where they must work together, communicate effectively, and use their problem-solving skills to succeed.

How often should managers and supervisors participate in team building activities?

While there's no hard and fast rule, it's generally a good idea for managers and supervisors to participate in team building activities periodically. 

Regular participation keeps the lines of communication open, helps maintain strong relationships within the team, and reinforces the skills gained during these activities. 

And let's face it, it's also a great excuse to take a break from the daily grind.

How do Fox in a Box's escape rooms cater to team building needs for managers and supervisors?

Fox in a Box's escape rooms are designed to test and enhance various skills that are essential in the workplace. 

Teams must work together, communicate effectively, and solve complex puzzles under time pressure - similar to situations they might face in their jobs. 

The scenarios in the escape rooms - whether it's breaking into a bank or escaping from a prison - offer a fun and engaging way to bring these skills to the fore. 

Plus, the debriefing session with the game masters and the personalized memory cards make it a unique and memorable experience.

What is the manager's role in team building?

In team building, a manager plays several roles. They are a participant, sharing in the activities alongside their team members. 

But they're also a facilitator, ensuring that everyone feels included and is able to contribute. They're a role model, demonstrating effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. And finally, they're a learner, taking on board the lessons from the activity and applying them in the workplace.

How should the leadership participate in team building?

Leadership participation in team building should be active and genuine. Leaders should engage fully in the activities, showing their team that they value the experience and the lessons it can teach. 

They should facilitate open and honest communication, embracing challenges and learning opportunities. 

Most importantly, they should demonstrate a supportive and collaborative attitude, helping to create a positive and productive team environment. 

After all, a leader who is willing to dive into an escape room scenario headfirst is likely to inspire their team to do the same!

Why team-building is crucial for supervisors and managers - key takeaways

To sum up, team-building activities are not just for team members; they're equally beneficial for managers and supervisors. 

They provide a platform to foster better communication, build trust, enhance morale, and strengthen problem-solving skills. 

More importantly, they help create a positive and productive work environment, which is vital for any successful team.

Ready to see all of this in action?

Alright, now that we've got all that covered, it's time to take the lead and step into an adventure with your team. 

Our escape rooms at Fox in a Box Chicago are designed to challenge, engage, and entertain.

Whether it's The Bank, The Prison, The Bunker, or the Zodiac, each room presents a unique set of challenges that will test your team's skills and bring you closer together. 

And don't forget about our Mobile Escape Room experience that can cater to up to two teams of 5 players each.

So, are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey of team-building and personal growth? Give us a call and book your Chicago team building event today. 

Trust me, your team will thank you for it!