The Power of Play: How Team Building Transforms Workplace Dynamics

• February 19, 2025
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Let’s be real—most corporate team-building activities could use a serious energy boost. 

If you’ve ever sat through a trust fall or forced icebreaker, you know what we mean. But when done right, team building doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It can be engaging, exciting, and—dare we say it—fun.

At United EVENTures, we believe play isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the secret weapon for stronger teams, better communication, and a workplace culture where people actually want to show up every day.

Why Play is the Ultimate Team-Building Hack

Forget awkward small talk and stiff networking events. 

Play breaks down barriers and levels the corporate playing field. When CEOs, managers, and employees step into a game together, job titles fade, and real connections emerge.

“Play creates an atmosphere where everyone can let their guard down,” says Will Leggett, President of United EVENTures. “It’s incredible to watch a hesitant new hire go from quiet observer to confident team leader, all because they felt comfortable enough to step up.”

And the best part? It’s not just feel-good fluff. Play-based team building has measurable benefits, from boosting employee engagement to improving collaboration and problem-solving.

How Play-Based Team Building Works

Structured team-building activities should be more than just running around and having fun (although we’re all for that). A great event provides clear objectives, defined roles, and a strategy for success. 

That’s why we incorporate the GRIP model into our play-based experiences:

• Goal: Establish a shared mission
• Role: Give each participant a key function
• Interaction: Encourage open collaboration
• Process: Outline steps to achieve success

When teams play with purpose, the results are undeniable: better communication, stronger relationships, and a workforce that works together like a well-oiled machine.

Must-Try Play-Based Team Building Activities

At United EVENTures, we’ve designed hundreds of interactive team-building events, but one of our all-time favorites? Geo Trekking.

Think of it as a high-energy, outdoor adventure where teams navigate custom-designed courses filled with clues, challenges, and unexpected twists. Each participant plays a crucial role—one might be the GPS navigator, another the historian, and someone else the safety expert. The only way to win? Work together.

“Most teams spend their days in meeting rooms,” Will says. “Geo Trekking breaks them out of that routine and puts them in an environment where teamwork feels natural and exciting.”

And the best part? It’s not just about winning—it’s about learning to work together under pressure, problem-solve in real-time, and celebrate each other’s strengths.

Turning Play into Long-Term Team Success

One epic team-building event is a great start, but if you want real transformation, play has to become part of your culture. 

That’s why we structure programs around Bruce Tuckman’s stages of team development:

• Forming: New teams build trust
• Storming: Teams learn to navigate conflict
• Norming: They establish rhythms and collaboration
• Performing: Teams hit their stride
• Adjourning: They reflect and celebrate their growth

“We always ask our clients: ‘Where do you want your team to be six months from now?’” Will says. “Then we design experiences that build toward that goal.”

Because the real win isn’t just a great day out—it’s a team that communicates better, collaborates more effectively, and thrives together long after the event.

Ready to Transform Your Team? Let’s Play.

Team-building should never feel like another meeting on the calendar. When you integrate structured play into your strategy, you’re investing in a stronger, more connected, and more engaged workforce.

So, if you’re ready to ditch the awkward icebreakers and bring your team-building game to the next level, let’s talk. United EVENTures is here to help you turn play into performance.