Teambuilding Tips From a Recreation Expert

June 12, 2023

Adventure-infused activities go a long way when it comes to teambuilding.

Teambuilding helps attendees build bonds, and enhances creative thinking and problem-solving skills for an overall successful program. Here are my top tips for unforgettable and inclusive teambuilding:

Identify Specific Group Preferences

Bonding occurs when everyone feels safe and comfortable and can participate, so it is imperative for planners to find an activity that fits the interests of their specific group. Some of the most successful meetings I’ve seen tend incorporate multiple activity options that guests can select based on their preference. For example, I worked with a planner recently who arranged a group bike ride and nature walk around the property, then added a Pedal Paddle tour, where attendees bike to the lake and then take a stand-up paddleboard excursion, for the more adventurous members of the group.

Understand the Level of Fitness Required

Here at my home base of Everline Resort & Spa, we offer several types of teambuilding activities that can be tailored based on group preferences—everything from kayak excursions on Lake Tahoe to archery and guided hikes. I highly recommend that planners have conversations with their venue, tour operator, or excursion outfitter to ensure they understand the exact skills and physical fitness required for an activity and ensure that those align with the group.

Focus on Collaboration

Shared experiences involving collaboration can help build rapport and communication between attendees. I’ve seen several successful events where groups take a traditional hike and turn it into a nature-infused scavenger hunt where the winning team receives a prize, or turn a kayak excursion into an on-the-water relay race. Encouraging friendly competition helps to further break the ice between attendees through shared problem solving and experiential learning.

Create Lasting Memories Year-Round

When selecting a meeting destination, consider the climate for your preferred visit time frame. I encourage planners to opt for a destination where you can include outdoor teambuilding adventures at any time of year.

Reed Phinisey is the recreation manager at Everline Resort & Spa. He works with groups and travelers to curate one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experiences exploring the Tahoe outdoors.