ICE BREAKERS – what exactly is an “Ice Breaker” in terms of corporate team building?

The Encyclopedia of Icebreakers (University Associates) says that ice breakers “are tools that enable the group leader to foster interaction, stimulate creative thinking, challenge basic assumptions, illustrate new concepts, and introduce specific material.”

In short “ice breakers” in corporate team building are used to introduce new members of staff, get different departments working together or introduce a new product or material, or just as an acknowledgement of the hard work your team may have spent on a project.

Team building need not be an expensive or time consuming procedure; with just a few hours out of the workday and an inexpensive activity, you can bring your team together in a positive way.

Here are a few fun ideas to get you on your way:

• Organize a community project – find an orphanage or school that needs some help. Send your teams in to paint, repair or plant gardens. Organize a beach or park clean-up. Find an activity that speaks to your team or reflects your company values. Get your staff involved and do some good for your community at the same time.
• Painting Murals – supply your staff with pre-drawn canvases, brushes and paints. Let everybody create a mural. When they are dry they can be hung around the work area, reception or board room.
• Create a Memory Wall – ask your staff to share a special memory, funny story or special team accomplishments from their time with your company. Once they have related their stories, ask them to write down their experiences using words and pictures and create a memory wall in the office.

Time spend interacting with other members of your company is always time well spent. Bond over shared experiences, laughter is always a good ice breaker. Shared experiences create bonds between individuals leading to better interaction in the work place.