Team building is different from team development in that it is generally a single event designed to give the team a boost. Many of the topics that are used in team development are also used in team building. Team building sessions are most often one or two days off-site. Two sample approaches are listed below; however, the content and approach will be determined based on a interview with at least the leader.
A key to team effectiveness is the clear understanding of, and building on, differences among members. This one day workshop is customized to the needs of the team and uses one or more of the following:
Team members explore each other's preferences in terms of style. Exercises are customized for the team and may include subjects such as learning styles, decision making, and leadership styles. The overall team preference is examined and team action plans are developed to move the team toward high performance.
Optimizing Team Performance is designed for teams or work groups that want to achieve the highest levels of performance. Prior to the session, members provide feedback on the team, themselves and each other on values for teamwork using the SYMLOG instrument. In the two-day session, the team examines its current and desired values for teamwork and determines how to close the gap. Individuals analyze their contribution to the effectiveness of the team through understanding their feedback and discussing the feedback with team members. Each individual leaves with personal action plans to be a more effective member and the team leaves with an overall plan to move toward higher performance.