Not your typical strengthfinder activities for team building

If you Google "strengthfinder activities for team building" you'll be instantly redirected to tons of websites that offer personalized tests and unique methodologies to help you discover what you already know. What is more, 9 out of 10 of those websites will reference CliftonStrength as the ultimate truth. 

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So why not save time and money instead? Below, we've selected 5 team building activities that will help you analyze yourself, your colleagues, and how you perform as a group — free of charge and with an instant result! 

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1. SWOT-analyze your team 

Time needed: 1-2 hours

Great for: teams interested in group results, not individual performance

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You must have heard of SWOT analysis! This time, we suggest you use it on yourselves instead of applying it to one of your projects. Of course, the very first part of the exercise asks you to answer the central question: what are my strengths? But you won't have to do it alone!

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Instead, you will focus on your performance as a group. As a result, you should know precisely what strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and external threats you are most prone to as a team. But also, you'll uncover lots of areas for improvement. All without paying a cent or leaving your (home) office.  

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2. I bring, I need 

Time needed: 20-30 minutes

Great for: teams struggling with internal validation

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Each participant has to share two statements. The first, "I bring…," is like a hard look you take in a mirror. Think about some of the most valuable skills and experiences you add to the team. And, yes, if you are the angel that brings homemade muffins on a random Thursday - you already bring plenty! 

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The "I need…" statement may be even more challenging because it forces you to honestly admit what you lack from the team. It may be something big, like fair recognition of your contribution. But it can also be something that you find particularly important even though others may not (like someone bringing homemade muffins on a random Thursday). 

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This strengthsfinder is a perfect team building activity for work because it encourages openness, promotes empathy, and helps you build more meaningful relations - with the group and yourself. 

3. Ask your colleagues directly

Time needed: up to 10 minutes

Great for: teams oriented at personal successes of each employee 

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Giving feedback can be tricky. Fortunately, plenty of tools and software are designed to make it easier these days. If you struggle with openly communicating your likes and dislikes to your coworkers or don't have time for a 2-hour retrospective, try using a solution like CultureAmp. 

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It allows you to ask specific questions only a particular employee will see. You can use it for annual reviews but also for small victories and losses in your day-to-day. 

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And to help you feel more secure sharing feedback face to face, try some of these team building exercises for improved communication! 

4. Organize office Olympics

Time needed: 1-2 hours

Great for: teams that appreciate the spirit of competition

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They say competition is one of the best strategies for identifying your strengths. We encourage you to take the competition to the next level with real office Olympics! You can organize something in your office, take it outside, or join online if you prefer working remotely. 

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The idea may seem a little silly initially, but as soon as you start participating, you'll see its full potential. It's not all about running around and shooting paper planes at the whiteboard. Instead, it's about discovering your new talents and revisiting the old. 

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This kind of team building is also second to none when it comes to practicing leadership. It encourages coworkers to think outside the box and look at each other from a new perspective. 

5. Integrate outside of the office

Time needed: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Great for: any team

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Finally, you can find your strength outside the workplace and apply it to your 9-to-5 routine. Sometimes, we are too caught up in our daily activities and responsibilities that a healthy change of scenery may do the trick.  

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For this, you can participate in virtually any team building activity. Some of our top picks are: 

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• Do an escape room together to practice problem-solving
• Take a personality test to help you understand yourself better
• Sign up for a cooking class
• Solve puzzles together

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Or try anything else you all find exciting. Remember: don't be afraid to experiment and discover yourself in unconventional scenarios. After all, with the new day comes new strength and new thoughts (Eleanor Roosevelt). 

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