How Introverts Can Become the Team-Building Superstars of their Workplace - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / How Introverts Can Become the Team-Building Superstars of their Workplace - Introvert Whisperer How Introverts Can Become the Team-Building Superstars of their Workplace Some people say that it’s not what you’re doing that matters, but who you’re doing it with. That’s true in the workplace, especially. Even the most mundane job can be fun and satisfying when you have positive relationships with your co-workers.   The majority of people want to work in spaces that are supportive and collaborative, so why do so many people cringe at the thought of team building activities? Perhaps it’s because most traditional team building activities are geared toward extroverts.   It can be difficult to bring people from different backgrounds and perspectives together in an organic way, so how can introverts become the team building superstars of their workplace? While many introverts might not feel like fostering team building is one of their strengths, introverts might actually possess the perfect skill set for true team building, trust, and cooperation.   By understanding the importance of team building, learning to utilize their specific strengths, and practicing some alternative methods of team building, introverts can be leaders in the workplace. The Importance of Team Building Team building might spark images of trust falls, weird company picnics, and name games, but team building doesn’t have to suck. True team building goes beyond all this. For team building to be successful, everyone must be comfortable and understand why they’re being asked to do each activity.   “Team building exercises are useful for improving communication, setting goals, and solving problems,” according to experts. “Team building activities can be used to build trust, which also improves a team’s ability to reach necessary objectives. These activities are a social way for employees to have fun while learning skills that better the effectiveness of your organization.”   It’s clear that team building isn’t overrated and that when it’s done well, the dynamic of your team will be improved and people will feel more engaged at work and even perform better. The Unique Strengths of Introverts Introverts bring a unique set of skills to the table. While introverts might not initially be seen as charismatic leaders, their tendencies can actually be great for team building.   Because introverts often spend less time talking and more time listening, they’re likely pretty well tuned in to the needs, concerns, and problems different team members are having. This can help set up the team building activities in a way that will benefit everyone instead of a select few.   Also, because it’s rarer for introverts to voice their opinions in a group setting, when they do speak up, people are more likely to listen. Their words are valued because they are few.   Surviving organizational stress in the workplace is something introverts often deal with, so the last thing you want is for an activity that’s supposed to be positive actually be dreaded by more introverted employees. So when you want to build team synergy in the workplace, look no further than your team’s introverts to lead the charge.   A good place to start is to ask the introverts on your team how they would go about team building in their ideal world. What would the activities look like? How would they be executed? The unique skills of introverts make them well-suited to answer these questions thoughtfully and thoroughly. Alternative Ways to Connect with Co-Workers When it comes to organizing team building activities for people who hate team building, introverts might have different ideas of how to connect. There are plenty of alternative ways to connect with co-workers that can be utilized in any workplace.   Sometimes, the best way for people to connect with each other is to get out of the work setting and unwind together somewhere new. Spending a day at a resort can offer opportunities for group activities as well as time for introverts to relax and recharge. It can be important to make sure the entire day isn’t extremely high energy, as it will likely leave introverts exhausted and irritable.   Another team building idea for introverts is to change the method of communication in some team building games, like “two truths and a lie” or other verbal games. Consider writing down answers or discussing questions with a single partner instead of the entire group to better suit the preferences of introverts.   When introverts lead these activities, they can be even more powerful. Introverted leaders might also appreciate using technology for team collaboration because these tools can help them communicate and contribute in non-verbal ways.   If introverts are on board with the team building activities, it’s likely that everyone will be. By turning the leadership of such activities over to the introverts and flipping the script on what’s expected during team building, all employees can get more out of the efforts. Playing to the strengths of introverts during team building can benefit everyone involved and help your organization thrive. Image Source: Unsplash By Sam Bowman Sam Bowman  is a freelance writer and introvert who enjoys getting to utilize the internet for the community without actually having to leave his house. In his spare time, he likes running, reading, and combining the two in a run to his local bookstore. 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