Introducing play into work is not just a frivolous “jolly”. Playing with colleagues gives a new perspective and the chance to find creative solutions. It also injects new energy into the workplace.
The positive impact of play at work on team dynamics, office culture and productivity of a staff team is powerful. And the benefits of play are much more than “just” fun. (Although we mustn’t underestimate the power of fun in the workplace either!)
5 fun activities for workshops
Here we have collected a few specific games and fun activities for adults, together with their transferable skill or “use” in the workplace. You could use these as team building games for team away days or just as workshop activities for example.
This is a sneak peek into some of the activities and games you might play at a PACT Creative workshop if your organisation decides to explore some fun team activities with far reaching positive impact.
Creeping
Literally moving towards a goal. This game elicits utter focus from the group and often innovative ways of arriving! We get to experience ourselves in action, in a safe, fun environment. Do we take huge risks to win at any costs or do we play it safe but get there in the end? All traits are rich contributors to the team and useful for us to know about ourselves/one another.
Walk Like/ Floor Is…
Calling out instructions about how to walk (angry, in hurry, excited) or that the floor is hot/sticky/slippery. Inspires creative responses from participants – literally thinking on their feet. Successful business people will tell you that being a bit cheeky and thinking outside the box has got them far… this game is the perfect illustration and helps release inhibitions.
Clusters
Fast and fun. Quick decisions, no room for self doubt. Participants must get into a group of the number called out by the facilitator within a stipulated time (e.g. 5 seconds). Competitive in a good way (light hearted and fun). Brings people together (literally!) and into the moment. This game often brings much hilarity!
Rhythm Games
The use of rhythm can provide an excellent experiential illustration that we are part of something bigger. When we work in sync, listen, collaborate and work in conjunction, the rhythm comes together: it sounds and feels better. Add some quick-thinking challenges for mental agility practice and, of course, fun!
The Trust Walk
This is a brilliant way for participants to experience having to rely on a colleague/to be reliable, the swapping of roles, taking turns, supporting/ “letting go”. The metaphor of this activity is obvious and the physical experience of this can be quite profound for participants. This is a great leveller, as an intern may lead the boss and vice versa, exploring the sense of trust and responsibility within a staff team.
Watch some clips of people playing during our workshops.
Find out more about our fun team building workshops and our INSET training.
A version of this is also posted by Jess on Psychologies Magazine’s online platform, lifelabs and across PACT Creative’s social media platforms in short clips.
