'It is important to consider what team members want to accomplish from team building, not just what management wants'
Unnecessary meetings and office politics are the main offenders preventing Australian employees getting their work done, according to new research.
Even though an overload of meetings and politics may not come as a surprise to any office workers, the research reveals insights into how team leaders and management can drive staff engagement.
Indeed, achieving workplace happiness is driven by the ability to learn something new (38%), the desire for more challenging work (31%) and having the ability to actively engage more with their colleagues (20%), according to Australian workers.
While one in five (21%) admit to not having a good office dynamic, half of those (52%) aged under 45 years old consider their colleagues as friends, offering management the opportunity to leverage these relationships to build a more functional, stronger team.
Hugo Monteiro Contente, Vice President, People and Talent ANZ from Torrens University Australia, said managers can do many things to improve team dynamics and synergies amongst their team members.
“It is important to consider what team members want to accomplish from a team building exercise, not just what management wants to achieve,” said Contente.
“The mention of a team building exercise can create an ‘oh-no’ feeling that ripples across a team, accompanied by fears of having to speak in front of peers and concerns of being able to get their work done.
“Incorporating newer technology to appeal to younger Australians is a great start, but having activities that provide challenges, educate and get people moving are also key.”
The research carried out by Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia (TSAA) reveals the most desired aspects of taking part in team building exercises; with workers putting a high importance on engaging with colleagues (49%), educational activities (32%) and active movement (25%).
Moreover, the most desirable outcomes from attending a team building event are improving relationships (33%), to better understand others (30%) and to improve communication skills (29%).
“Finding activities that educate, create movement and build an understanding of each other’s differences can keep teams engaged throughout the event, leading to an improved overall team dynamic,” said Contente.
The Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia has launched a new interactive app called TAC’TICS, a name coined from the involuntary tics experienced by those with Tourette Syndrome.
The application actively encourages education into team building events, helping to break the stigma of Tourette Syndrome, while providing physical activity and stimulating challenges.
Robyn Latimer, President of TSAA said, team building activities increase employee motivation and nurture a successful company culture. TAC’TICS not only encourages movement and teamwork but also educates and creates empathy for those with Tourette Syndrome.
Moreover, 70% of Australians expect those with Tourette Syndrome will struggle to get a job and two-thirds (61%) believe it will impact the ability to hold-down or keep a job.
Consequently, the TSAA is encouraging workplaces to incorporate education as part of team building exercises to improve outcomes for those with Tourette Syndrome.
