There are tons of highly effective, fun team-building activities that you and your team can do to become more engaged, better acquainted with each other, and more productive all while having some fun. It's important to team build often and even more important to get everyone participating. Good lines of communication, strong teamwork skills, and getting to know your team are all what to expect with the right amount of effort. If you are trying to fuse fun and work, look no further!

Lunching With Coworkers:
Lunch time is a glorious time for many people in the workplace, and with good reason. Having time to eat and take a mental break is very important, even if it's only a short amount of time for some. Next lunch break, try something new with your employees. Start by taking one day out of the week to spend lunch getting to know your team even better. Try out a new spot each time, and make up a game to play on your way there or once you arrive! Newly opened lines of communication between everyone will be great to take back to the office.
 
Office Makeover:
Kick off a mini makeover for the office. If your office is in need of a few changes, work as a team
to spruce it up! While your team sets out for lunch, create a simple list of things that could use an overhaul. Working in a team will be beneficial for all. The organization doesn't need to have a big
budget. Minor changes like adding some new plants, art, or a few colorful pillows to the couch in the lounge can really make the difference. In addition to teams becoming stronger, the work environment will be better suited for all who helped out, which will improve the mood around the office.

Outdoor Team-Building Activities:
When summer months arrive, that means going outdoors for fresh air and sun! Take your team outside for meetings when you can. Being outdoors will instantly lighten the mood and result in a much better time than that spent indoors. A DIY team-building activity is the perfect way to spend your time outside. If you want something more structured, try a themed scavenger hunt. Whichever method you choose, you'll have a fun and effective team-building experience.

Recognition Tools:
Use recognition tools as a fun way to show that someone has done something meaningful at the office. Fill a box with various items and treats for team members who accomplish tasks or do something worth noting. This act will demonstrate a sense of positivity in the office and create a desirable work culture. Below are a few examples of different items to place in your box. Come up with your own items that have their own meanings behind them, too!
  - A Gumby figure for somebody who has shown flexibility
  - A pair of cheap sunglasses for a bright idea
  - A rubber ball for somebody who has bounced back from a challenge
  - Fun-size pieces of candy to sweeten someone's day

Office Teams or Clubs:
Is there a disconnect between people at work? Do you want to see them bond more? Create a team or club to further your team-building efforts. A sports team or book club can be just what you need to see your team become stronger through shared interests and experiences. Being a part of something outside of work will give team members something to relate to and provide new topics of conversation. A healthy team or club can make all the difference at work and will improve the work culture.

Social Activities:
All work and no play doesn't just make for a dull office. While the priority for workers always should be on performing the jobs for which they are paid, there are even more low-cost social activities that can break up the office routine and foster an esprit de corps. For example, try:
  - A talent show
  - Board games
  - Alternative-dress day