I am running a 1hr workshop as part of a networking luncheon for a large group of managers on the theme of leading effective teams. I have a vast array of activities which work well with much smaller groups but am looking for inspiration on what I can do with a large group (40+) which will not only be fun but will also facilitiate their skills in leading their teams. I would be happy to split them up into smaller groups. Any ideas gratefully appreciated!
Tracy Israel
3 Responses
the space/time continuum may be your enemy
Tracey
The blindfold minefield may well address the objectives you have,however, it is pushing it for a one hour slot. Alternatively the blindfold polygon exercises might be easier timewise but really require fewer people; therefore you could get it happening with two groups of 20. Both these exercises require space which may be a problem.
If you need something less active you could try any one of the paper survival exercises such as NASA or Lost at Sea. These are aimed more at teamwork than leadership but you can modify them by making specific leadership style instructions to the nominated leaders.
I suspect you will have a challenge fitting a meaningful activity for such a large group into either the physical space available or the time available but the above suggestions can be made to work, and I’m sure that there are others available.
Hope this helps
Rus
‘Building blocks of effective teams’
I use an exercise which demonstrates the importance of the ‘building blocks of effective teams’. (Balanced roles; Clear objectives and agreed goals; Support and trusting relationships; Co-operation , openness and conflict; Sound procedures; Appropriate leadership; Regular review; Individual development; Good communications.)
The bigger the group the better (or harder!).
Instructional aim is to highlight the need for the ‘building blocks’ to make a successful team.
The aim of this exercise is to see how fast the group can get the whole team to pass through an inner tube (or I tend to use a couple of bungees tied together in a circle.
– Explain the exercise:
– Demonstrate
– Get the group to have a go
– Time each try and tell them how long it took (write on Flip Chart)
– Get them to set a goal to go faster – Ask “How can you improve on that? What can you do differently? What is slowing you down?” Only give them a minute at the most between tries
– Keep re-setting the goal.
– Keep the group going until they really form a quick solution
– Should take about 15 – 20 minutes to get to really fast time
Ask “What did you do to get such a good time?” Discuss and list on flip chart. Link in with Building Blocks, then ask them to assess themselves and their own teams – and to plan ways to improve on areas that need improving
PS – A fast solution will usually include participants taking it in turns to go head-toe and toe-head with two holding open the tyre/bungee and moving it up and down.
Hope this helps!
Annah
[email protected]
Belbin
Have you considered the use of Belbin team roles? Specifically the Belbin Contribute game. It would involve use of the Belbin team type questionnaire to determine each persons preferred team role however the exercises within contribute can then be split up to have people operate within their primary, secondary or tertiary role. It is an interesting exercise in that it poses the question as to whether the participants own teams have the full make up of team roles and whether this has any impact on the delvery of their performance objectives. It may also throw up a number of development needs within certain groups.