Leadership Viewpoint

Effective leaders find ways to ensure that their team remains motivated and energized. For most people, that must include some ‘fun’ time. One of our clients went so far as to build a miniature golf course into their offices, including a hole to drop to the lower floor for the second nine! For most of us, it means keeping a sense of humor and encouraging the ‘office organizer’ to do their thing. Often there’s a person on the team that likes to plan an occasional party or outing. Let them do their thing, and provide them with support when it’s needed.

The bigger question that we often hear is about ‘boundaries’. What is appropriate? How do we know if they’ve gone too far? Here are the guidelines we use:

1. Fun activities during work hours are mandatory for team building reasons.
2. Fun activities outside work hours are optional, unless we’re on the road together.
3. No individual will be singled out for jokes or ridicule. Even if he or she can take it, it sets a poor precedent and may make others uncomfortable.
4. Sports or competitive activities must include a role for everyone. Different physical abilities must be accounted for so that everybody is comfortable and included. Scorekeeping, commentary, etc. can be part of the plan.
5. Sensitivity to corporate titles is minimal during fun activities. It’s the one time we’re all peers.

Let us know if you have ideas to add to our list!

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