Connection, Not Cringe: Creative Team Activities That Stick
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AVOID THE AWKWARDNESS DURING TEAM CONNECTION ACTIVITIES
A recent post by Romy Alexandra on vulnerability and “vulnerability porn” got me thinking about team activities that build connection—without the ewww factor or the risk of a well-intended exercise backfiring.
Here are five of my favorite team activities that spark engagement and connection without pushing people into discomfort:
Reverse Brainstorming
What it is: Instead of solving a problem, teams brainstorm ways to make it worse. For example: “How can we make our meetings as inefficient as possible?” Then, flip those answers into actionable insights for improvement.
Connection Benefit: This encourages creative thinking, humor, and a shared understanding of challenges—without putting individuals on the spot. It also creates a safe space for teams to voice frustrations in a productive way.
The Silent Puzzle Challenge
What it is: Teams must complete a jigsaw puzzle (or tangram set) within a time limit—but with one catch: no talking allowed.
Connection Benefit: This highlights how much we rely on nonverbal communication and teamwork. It’s a great way to surface unspoken team dynamics and problem-solving approaches without making it personal.
3. Show & Tell: Workplace Edition
What it is: Each person picks an object from their desk (or bag) and shares its story in 30 seconds. It could be a quirky gadget, a coffee mug, or even a random office supply.
Connection Benefit: This sparks curiosity and natural conversation, allowing people to reveal a bit of personality without personal vulnerability. It’s an easy, low-effort way to build familiarity and fun.
“Connection doesn’t have to mean discomfort—great team activities spark engagement without putting people on the spot.”
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
4. Speed Appreciation (But make it tactical)
What it is: Each team member shares one work-related thing they appreciate about the person next to them. The key? Keep it specific and professional (e.g., “I really appreciated the way you led that client call last week”).
Connection Benefit: Reinforces positive team culture, normalizes recognition, and helps people feel seen for their contributions—without the awkwardness of deeply personal affirmations.
5. Lost in Space or Lost in the Wild
What it is: Your team has crash-landed on the moon (or is lost in the wilderness). You have 10 survival items—rank them in order of importance. Compare your choices with expert rankings at the end.
Connection Benefit: Encourages structured decision-making, group problem-solving, and highlights different perspectives—without making it personal. Plus, it’s fun to see how people think under uncertainty!
Let’s Talk Leadership Development
As a leadership development coach, I believe that strong teams are built from the inside out—through curiosity, shared purpose, and everyday moments of connection. If you're looking for fresh ways to strengthen your team or want support designing team experiences that feel real (not forced), I’d love to help. You can learn more about my approach to coaching and teaming at wholesum.me, or reach out directly to start a conversation. Let’s connect.