Escape games – and especially cultural escape games, which allow you to explore the city while having fun – are an excellent way to complete a successful team building exercise in Paris. But what exactly is team building ? In this article, we offer a definition followed by a brief story of the concept of team building ! Enjoy your reading !
Team building, quesaco ?
The term literally means “build a team”. As its name suggests, the goal of team building is to strengthen team spirit around the values of a compagny or institution, in a group of people who are brought to work together. Indeed, during their school career, students are invited to take part in collective activities; but, because of the competion that is established, particularly in competitive courses, they often enter their career with very individualistic dynamics. It is very difficult for a team leader or boss to create a climate conducive to camaraderie and mutual assistance, which are essential for achieving common goals.
Thanks to participation in joint activities in a fun way, individuals will forge strong bonds in another context than the usual compagny setting. The change of location and the departure from agreed schedules help to unblock some of the more hostile behaviors. Thus, the benefits of this new camaraderie should have an impact on the atmosphere and quality of work in the future.
The effects of good team building
Successful team building has a direct impact on :
- communication between members
- resolving crisis or conflict situations
- organizing and distributing tasks
- concentration and dedication to tasks
- integrating new employees
- cohesion and adherence of group values
- trust and the understanding among the various teammates
- the joy of getting together !
And, ultimately, successful team building will has impact on :
- Involvement in tasks
- Strengthened self-confidence
- Absenteeism
- Employee commitment and adherence to the values of the institution or company
- Staff turnover
This means that your team’s performance will ultimately be improved overall. So, are you convinced?
Team building, for whom ?
So, who and in what context are these group building activities recommended for?
- Students, to prepare them for projects requiring group cohesion and collaboration;
- Businesses, to optimize employee relationships;
- Athletes, to strengthen team bonds…
And many others…
History of team building
Since ancient times (think of the Olympic Games for Greek cities), and then very strongly in the contemporary period (scouting), the development of various sports has been used as a means of creating team spirit among young people, while also stimulating their desire for competition.
In the 1930s, as office culture developed and the first research in sociology and psychology was refined, the importance of happiness at work was increasingly questioned. Human resources departments initiated the collection of statistical data to support their reasoning.
But team building itself was gradually imported from the United States in the 1980s, inspired by innovative American management methods. In the past, firms and industries maintained a highly paternalistic and hierarchical model of relationships with their employees. During the 1990s, the work environment became much more flexible, and companies developed other ways to foster closeness with their employees, commonly referred to as the “corporate” feeling.
Sociologist Luc Boltanski describes these profound post-May 1968 changes in The New Spirit of Capitalism, co-authored with economist Eve Chiapello.
The “Gamification” of Society
Currently, millennials are finding it increasingly difficult to engage at work and find meaning in their profession. In response, companies have significantly expanded wellness spaces on their premises; these spaces increasingly resemble third places. They have also strengthened listening and psychology services, even going so far as to hire “happiness managers.” Finally, they have considered alternative ways to engage workers… We’re talking about the “gamification” of society: that is, our culture advocates employment in a different area than the mechanics of gaming.
This can, for example, make tedious tasks easier to tackle, more enjoyable, and include an educational component. We also talk about “serious games.” Designers are exploiting our attachment to games and the mechanisms of competition and rewards. And not just in the workplace! On social media, on website interfaces, in the instructions of public institutions… and even little games to pass the time waiting at the coffee machines!
Note: In the past, reward systems in class and the awarding of discount coupons for loyal customers could be considered similar to these forms of play.
Your turn !
You too can motivate your partners and experience team building in our cultural escape games in Paris and Lyon!
Come and explore the more famous neighborhoods of Paris and Lyon : Montmartre, l’Ile de la Cité, the covered passages, the Sacred-Heart and the old Lyon; while learning interesting anecdotes and having fun for good memories in your team.
Still unsure if this option is for you? Also, check out our article “Team Building in Paris: Why Choose an Outdoor Escape Game?“
Have fun!
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