How to Plan 7 Engaging Team Building Activities for New Hires in a 60-Minute Session
How to Plan 7 Engaging Team Building Activities for New Hires in a 60-Minute Session
Did you know that organizations with effective onboarding programs improve new hire retention by 82%? Yet, many companies struggle to create engaging onboarding experiences. Planning a quick, impactful session for new hires can set the tone for their entire journey. In this guide, we'll explore seven engaging team building activities you can fit into a 60-minute session, ensuring your new hires feel welcomed, connected, and excited about their roles.
1. Icebreaker Bingo (15 minutes)
Time Needed: 15 minutes
Group Size: Up to 20
Cost: Free (just print bingo cards)
Energy Level: Low
Description: Create bingo cards with fun facts relevant to your team (e.g., "Has traveled to more than 5 countries," "Plays a musical instrument"). New hires mingle and find colleagues who match the descriptions to fill in their cards.
Logistical Notes: Prepare bingo cards in advance. Encourage mingling and set a timer for 15 minutes.
Skip if... Your team is very large, as coordination may become challenging.
2. Two Truths and a Lie (10 minutes)
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: Up to 15
Cost: Free
Energy Level: Low
Description: Each team member shares two truths and one lie about themselves. The group guesses which statement is the lie, fostering conversation and laughter.
Logistical Notes: No materials needed; simply facilitate the discussion and keep track of time.
Skip if... Your team is shy and may not feel comfortable sharing personal details.
3. Team Trivia (15 minutes)
Time Needed: 15 minutes
Group Size: Up to 20
Cost: Free (create your own trivia)
Energy Level: Moderate
Description: Prepare a trivia quiz about the company, its history, or fun facts about team members. Divide new hires into small teams to encourage collaboration.
Logistical Notes: Use an online quiz platform or simply read questions aloud.
Skip if... Team members are not familiar with the company yet.
4. Collaborative Art (10 minutes)
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: Up to 15
Cost: $20 for supplies
Energy Level: Moderate
Description: Provide a large canvas and art supplies. Ask each new hire to contribute to a collective piece of art, symbolizing their unique contributions to the team.
Logistical Notes: Set up a table with supplies in advance. Display the completed artwork in the office.
Skip if... Your team is not artistically inclined and may feel intimidated.
5. Speed Networking (10 minutes)
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: Up to 20
Cost: Free
Energy Level: Moderate
Description: Pair new hires for quick, timed conversations (2 minutes each) to introduce themselves and share their roles. Rotate pairs after each round.
Logistical Notes: Have a timer visible to keep the activity on track.
Skip if... Your team is too large to manage effective rotations within the time limit.
6. Quick Problem-Solving Challenge (10 minutes)
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: Up to 20
Cost: Free
Energy Level: High
Description: Present a hypothetical company problem and have teams brainstorm solutions. Each team presents their ideas within 2 minutes.
Logistical Notes: Prepare a simple scenario in advance that is relevant to your industry.
Skip if... Your group is too large to allow for meaningful discussion in the allotted time.
7. Reflection and Goal Setting (10 minutes)
Time Needed: 10 minutes
Group Size: Up to 20
Cost: Free
Energy Level: Low
Description: End the session by asking new hires to reflect on their goals for the next few months. They can write these down or share them in pairs.
Logistical Notes: Provide paper and pens for everyone to jot down their thoughts.
Skip if... Your team is not comfortable sharing personal goals in a group setting.
Conclusion: Action Items for a Successful Session
- Select Activities: Choose activities based on your team's dynamics and comfort levels.
- Prepare Materials: Gather any necessary supplies (bingo cards, art supplies) ahead of time.
- Facilitate with Energy: Keep the momentum high and encourage participation.
- Follow Up: Consider sending a summary email with highlights and next steps after the session.
By implementing these activities, you can create an engaging onboarding experience that fosters connection and sets the stage for a successful team dynamic.
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