Saturday, August 18, 2007
On the Hunt
Recently, I facilitated a client scavenger hunt in downtown Chicago. ("Hunting" is the relaxing, fun part of my business.) Hunts are a high energy; highly anticipated event by the client whose purpose is to promotoe teambuilding. This particular client was no different—with the exception that they were HIGHLY competitive.
What do you think of when contemplating teambuilding? Perhaps…
* open communication
* helping team mates
* working together
The emphasis for me is collaboration—finding and using the synergy within the entire team. So, I was thrown off a bit when this particular client took the hunt to a new level of competitiveness. The antics of each hunt team went beyond “friendly” competition. At first, I believed their random comments were their unique sense of humor. But, sometimes, truth is disguised in sarcasm.
I heard comments ranging from bribery ("If I help you, then how many extra points do I get?") to meanness ("When they get their picture taken let’s laugh really hard and point out how stupid they look."). This is not teambuilding; it is not collaboration.
Double-check in what ways you are truly building a cohesive work team. Is it through unconscious competitveness or true teamwork? On my calendar the other day was this quote:
“Be the light that others can come to with their ideas, visions, and dreams. Never doubt that blending your talents with those of others can change the world.”
Until next time...live like you mean it!
Marjorie