IF THE COVID PANDEMIC had a silver lining, it reminded us how much we all need social interaction. Human beings crave that personal connection.
“Once the COVID restrictions were lifted, our phone was ringing off the hook” shared Lumberjaxe Founder, Kerry Moher, whose company offers a unique venue at City Centre in Hintonburg with axe and knife throwing. “Especially for corporate clients. They really needed to get their teams together again and reform those personal relationships.”
The subsequent shift to a remote work environment further exacerbated this void. We’ve all experienced the ‘online meeting’ fatigue.
It’s no secret that when employees communicate and collaborate outside of the workplace, it improves their performance and overall satisfaction in their job. Which is why team building activities have long been sought by companies large and small to help improve its culture.
“We see it every day. When your team learns something new together, it builds trust and loyalty,” explains Kerry.
Despite the acknowledged benefits (increased engagement, boosting the bottom line etc.), team building has a reputation for being, well, lame. It can also be adventurous and enjoyable if done right.
Lumberjaxe seems to have found that balance; a team building activity that’s inclusive, challenging and memorable.
“Throwing axes and knives isn’t particularly difficult. Anyone can learn it quickly. But it’s hard to figure out on your own.” adds Kerry. “The faster your team starts hitting bullseyes—the more fun they have.”
As such, every session at Lumberjaxe involves active coaches in every lane to ensure safety and proficiency.
Similar to ‘lame’ team building activities, holiday parties have fallen out of favour with employees. In fact, a recent survey by Visier revealed that nearly 70% of employees would rather skip the annual office holiday get together.
Innovative companies recognize that they cannot afford to mail it in on any corporate social outing. Everyone wants to avoid passed canapes, overpriced drinks and awkward conversations. “Even at your holiday party: you want to get bums out of seats” explains Kerry. “Treat your staff to something interactive, something new, something they can look forward to.”
Axe and knife throwing sessions typically run for 90 minutes to 2 hours and involve both interactive games and/or round robin tournaments, which creates a spirit of healthy competition.
“When is the last time you saw your team vocally rooting each other on and celebrating each other with hugs and high fives?” asks Kerry.
Fair question!
Trending Now
The OBoT Perspective
