Corporate team building events can be tedious and sometimes feel contrived. The standard office games or trust exercises may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Hosting a team building event that is unique and fun could go a long way in boosting morale and fostering strong relationships among co-workers. Organizing a team outing to a bowling alley might just be the twist that your team needs. Bowling is a perfect sport to bring out the competitive spirit in everyone while providing a relaxed and fun environment.
Set a date and invite the team
The initial step is setting a date that works for everyone. Consult your calendar and ensure that the date does not coincide with any prior engagements or important deadlines. Once you finalize the date, make a list of all the team members and send out invitations. It’s essential to give everyone enough notice to see if they can make it. A well-organized event will be appreciated by all, and people are more likely to attend if they feel like it matters to the team.
Pick a venue
Bowling alleys are a dime a dozen these days, so ensure you pick one that has everything your team needs. Check for availability on your selected date, and choose a venue that has a large enough space to accommodate your group. Many bowling alleys provide party packages that offer exclusive lanes, food, and drinks, so consider those options as well. You could also check out different venues in the area and compare prices before settling on a specific one.
Decide on the format
Bowling alleys offer various formats of the game, with the most common being individual and team competitions. You can choose a specific type of game, or mix it up so that everyone can participate regardless of their skill level. Consider incorporating different challenges, such as a Reverse Bowling round where players have to bowl backward, or even switching shoes with your teammate. Be creative and think outside the box when it comes to organizing the event.
Catering
No event is complete without good food and drinks. Check with the bowling alley if they offer catering options, or bring in some snacks and refreshments for everyone. Consider any dietary restrictions that team members may have to ensure everyone is accommodated. Food and drinks are a great way to get people mingling and boost the overall ambiance.
Prizes and awards
Incorporating prizes and recognition could add to the fun and competitive spirit of the activity. You could award prizes for the best individual score or team score, or the most creative bowling technique. Similarly, you could choose to give out awards for the worst score (as a way to break the ice). The prizes do not have to be extravagant as they’re more of a symbolic gesture and are meant to add to the overall experience.
In conclusion, team building is essential in fostering relationships and boosting morale in the workplace. Choosing a unique, fun, and engaging activity like bowling is a great way of achieving that. The steps in organizing a bowling event are simple and straightforward, but the experience is unforgettable. Getting everyone together and showcasing their competitive spirit in such a relaxed environment is sure to bring out everyone’s fun side. Follow these steps and organize the perfect team building event, and who knows, it could be the start of a new tradition in your team.