Team-building activities with a difference

Calling all managers out there, are you looking for a way to inspire and motivate your team? Fed up of going out for an Indian, Chinese, Italian meal, delete as appropriate, but unsure of what else you could actually do? Perhaps it's time to consider a sporting activity such as golf.

Whether you view golf as a sport and a sport only, or prefer to see it as a hobby or way of socialising with others, golf can be a relaxed and unassuming game between friends and work colleagues alike. In essence, golf can be whatever you make of it. Golf is an excellent team-building activity, offering the opportunity to build and enhance work relations in a light state of competitive play. With a typical round lasting around 3-4 hours, it can easily be fitted in to an afternoon, with just enough time remaining to grab a quick drink afterwards to round the day off nicely.

Another good idea is to consider offering a prize scheme. Now I'm not saying it has to be a big cup or an expensive gift; simply something to offer an incentive to take part and really make an effort. This could be a drink, gift voucher or maybe even an early finish from work one day. They beauty of it is that as manager, you can name the prize.

You may be sat there thinking some team members already play golf and as such have an advantage. Fear not; by introducing a handicap system, frequently used in golf, this enables players of all abilities and experience to start on a level playing field. Essentially, this is done by adding a number of allowed shots to a player's par score for the round, resulting in stronger players having less shots and weaker players more.

For many, golf in itself is enough to generate interest. If, however, you're looking for a more general activity to involve everybody, you can turn the event into a golfing day by offering an evening reception. With most golf club and courses boasting function rooms, bar and restaurant, this gives the opportunity to dress up and socialise in a whole different atmosphere. Furthermore, if you have a special work celebration to organise, why not plan a golfing day and celebrate in style?

All in all, golf could be the way forward for you and your team. Make the most of team-building activities by making a change today.