This is Why Your Team Culture Efforts Are Falling FLAT
What if your employees actually want to be going to work today, instead of a clock-watching purgatory? Imagine waking up with energy, eager to collaborate with a team that inspires you. Now, what’s stopping your company from becoming that place?
Team building. It’s one of the most overused buzzwords in business yet remains one of the most misunderstood. Too often, it’s reduced to forced bonding activities that provoke groans or awkward silence—think trust falls or uninspired happy hours. But what if we told you the secret to real team building isn’t about cheesy icebreakers or free pizza? Instead, it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, supported, and energised to contribute their best. Let’s uncover how to turn team-building efforts into a genuine culture that boosts morale, innovation, and yes, even your bottom line.
It’s Monday morning, and the office is buzzing. You notice Jane, the quiet analyst, sharing ideas with Mark from marketing, while Sam from operations throws in a joke that makes everyone laugh. No one’s hiding in their cubicle or glaring at the clock. This isn’t some utopian fantasy; it’s the result of a deliberate and thoughtful approach to team building.
Now, think back to the last time you attended a “mandatory” team-building event. Was it a workshop that felt like a chore? A happy hour where half the team left early? Chances are, it missed the mark because it didn’t resonate with the unique dynamics of your team.
From my own experience, the best teams aren’t just thrown together—they’re cultivated. When I worked with a group that truly clicked, something magical happened. We trusted each other, learned from one another, and achieved more than we ever could alone. That energy? It’s not luck. It’s built.
So, how do you build that kind of team? Start by flipping the script. As Simon Sinek says, “Start with why.” Ask yourself, Why do your people show up every day? And more importantly, Do they feel like they matter? If you want a culture that thrives, you have to treat people like your greatest asset—because they are.
Let’s break down what works and what doesn’t in team building:
Ditch the One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Behavioural science shows that people’s motivations differ. Some thrive on collaboration, others prefer quiet acknowledgment. The key? Know your people. Take time to understand their “go buttons”—what energises them, what drains them, and how they like to engage.
Quality Over Quantity: Adam Coffey, in Empire Builder, notes that “culture and revenue are directly related.” A company picnic won’t magically transform your culture if the day-to-day environment is toxic. Focus on creating small, consistent moments of connection: celebrating wins, offering genuine feedback, or simply showing empathy during tough times.
Create Purpose-Driven Teams: Studies show that when people see how their work contributes to a greater mission, they’re more engaged. Make your “why” crystal clear. Whether it’s improving customer lives or innovating within your industry, let your team know they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
Leverage the Power of Influence: Behavioural science experts remind us that influence begins with trust. Build trust by creating an environment where people feel heard, and striking the right balance between warmth and competence. Encourage challenging the status quo. This combination fosters a sense of safety and confidence in your decisions, encouraging collaboration and open communication.
Companies Leading the Way:
Let’s take inspiration from some of the companies consistently ranked as the best places to work:
Atlassian (Australia): Known for its people-first approach, Atlassian emphasises flexibility, innovation, and employee well-being. Their "TEAM Anywhere" policy allows employees to work from any location, fostering trust and autonomy. A recent survey highlighted that 94% of Atlassian employees agree it’s a great place to work.
Google (USA): Google has long been a leader in fostering innovative, collaborative environments. From open workspaces to on-site amenities like fitness centres and free meals, they ensure employees feel valued. But it’s not just perks—their focus on psychological safety within teams is a cornerstone of their success.
Salesforce (USA): Recognised for its strong emphasis on equality and giving back, Salesforce builds community through its "Ohana" (family) culture. They’re known for their employee resource groups, which empower individuals to bring their whole selves to work.
REI (USA): Voted as a top workplace for its commitment to work-life balance, REI gives employees "Yay Days"—paid time off to enjoy outdoor activities. This aligns with their mission and resonates deeply with employees.
These companies excel because they understand that team building isn’t just about activities—it’s about fostering a culture where people feel connected and motivated.
Remember that initial vision of a workplace where energy flows, ideas spark, and people want to be there? It’s not just a dream—it’s achievable. When you shift your focus from superficial bonding to meaningful culture-building, you’re not just creating a team. You’re building a community.
The truth is, team building isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters. Start small. Focus on people, purpose, and genuine connection. When you invest in your team, they’ll invest in your business. After all, people are your superpower. And with the right culture, there’s no limit to what your team can achieve. So, what’s your next step to building a workplace people love? Because it all starts with you.