How do you create a team building program that meets stakeholder needs?

1 Identify your stakeholders

The first step is to identify who are the stakeholders of your team building program. Stakeholders are anyone who has an interest or influence in the outcome of your program, such as senior leaders, managers, employees, customers, or suppliers. You need to understand their needs, expectations, and concerns, as well as their level of involvement and support for your program. You can use various methods to gather stakeholder information, such as interviews, surveys, focus groups, or observation.

2 Define your objectives

The next step is to define what you want to achieve with your team building program. What are the specific goals and outcomes that you want to see in your team? How will you measure and evaluate them? How will they align with the organizational vision, mission, and values? You need to write clear and SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) objectives that reflect the needs and expectations of your stakeholders. You also need to communicate your objectives to your stakeholders and get their feedback and buy-in.

3 Choose your activities

The third step is to choose the activities that will help you achieve your objectives. Activities are the core of your team building program, as they provide the opportunity for your team to interact, learn, and grow together. You need to select activities that are suitable for your team size, composition, and dynamics, as well as your budget, time, and location. You also need to consider the learning styles, preferences, and motivations of your team members, and how they will relate to the activities. You can use various sources to find activities, such as online databases, books, or experts.

4 Plan your logistics

The fourth step is to plan the logistics of your team building program. Logistics are the practical aspects that ensure the smooth execution of your program, such as venue, equipment, materials, transportation, catering, and safety. You need to plan your logistics in advance and in detail, and check for any potential issues or risks that might affect your program. You also need to coordinate with your stakeholders and team members, and inform them of the logistics and their roles and responsibilities.

5 Facilitate your program

The fifth step is to facilitate your team building program. Facilitation is the process of guiding and supporting your team through the activities and the learning outcomes. You need to have the skills and confidence to facilitate your program effectively, such as communication, leadership, feedback, and problem-solving. You also need to be flexible and adaptable, and ready to adjust your program according to the needs and feedback of your team and stakeholders. You need to create a positive and engaging atmosphere, and encourage participation and reflection.

6 Evaluate your program

The final step is to evaluate your team building program. Evaluation is the process of assessing the results and impact of your program, and identifying the strengths and areas for improvement. You need to use various methods and tools to collect and analyze data, such as surveys, tests, interviews, or observation. You need to compare the data with your objectives and expectations, and measure the return on investment (ROI) of your program. You also need to share your findings and recommendations with your stakeholders and team members, and celebrate your successes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?