Learning the Ropes About Team Building
he individual comes away with a greater self-awareness and increased confidence. All-in-all, team building has a strong purpose of creating mutual trust and respect between both parties. It is also known for bringing out hidden strengths and potentials of individuals (a cause for increased confidence). Team building emphasizes the importance of total communication, a shared vision, shared commitment, and cooperation amongst all participants. “One for all” and “All for one” are sayings properly reflecting the attitude of successful team building. Before partaking of any team building exercises, you must know the personality characteristics of your team members. This will help determine what type of exercises will be best suited for everyone involved. Also know your time limits and budgetary constraints/limits. These criteria will make your experience even more successful.
A wonderful venue for team building near Seattle is Alderbrook Resort, approximately 12 miles west of Belfair in Union. It offers a comprehensive challenge course with two elements involved. The first element is considered “low level” and used mainly to identify group dynamics. The team is confronted with obstacles and must utilize problem solving skills, leadership skills, and in the process decide – as a team – which is the best decision to overcome the obstacle. An employee’s strengths and weaknesses are brought out during this phase. The phase/exercise involves a cable attached to trees, and lasts 2-4 hours. The second element is of a more physical nature and is considered “high level.” Here the individual is “pushed to the limit.” The exercise is physically tough and is meant to bring out both the confidence level and initiative level of the individual. This phase/exercise is known as the “ropes” course. There also is a “leap of faith” exercise whereby trust is an essential ingredient. Overall, this physically tough level averages 4-5 hours. Teams average 10-15 members, and the courses can be designed any way you desire. Some teams choose to take the low level one day, and the high level the next day. Others combine both into one day. By the way, hotel guests can sign up for these exercises as long as the group is 10 or more. Contact Alderbrook Resort for more information at 1-800-622-9370.
“Ropes” courses near Seattle are also offered at Island Lake Camp in Poulsbo (360-697-1212), and Soundview Camp and Retreat in Long Branch (no number available). In Gig Harbor, the Center for Leadership Development is known for its organizational development and team building classes/exercises amongst other areas. Founded by Dr. Charles Hayward, he developed the PRAISE mode emphasizing six key elements of effective organization and cross-functional teamwork. Visit their website at www.teamcld.com for further information. Or, call them at (253) 448-4806. Two local successful team building gurus are local business coach Jackie Nagel and management consultant Bill Evans. With their help, your team will know their expectations, outline their purpose, and reach their goal. They can help your team determine how problems are best dealt with, and set guidelines for team success. Evans’ work is customized to suit the unique individual needs of each client. He can be reached at (360) 871-7574, BEvansIPT@aol.com or visit his Web site www.billevanspresents.com. Nagel’s sessions average 4 hours and are customized for your team. Visit her Web site at www.jackienagel.com. With so many great venues and expert leadership on our peninsula regarding team building, what are you waiting for? Your team needs you. Bring out the best in others and help everyone. You will be glad you did.
