Team building drives long-term gains for UK IT professionals

New research indicates that team building activities are linked to sustained positive outcomes among IT and telecoms professionals in the UK.

The study found that 82% of IT and telecoms professionals believe team building boosts collaboration among the workforce, with 52% highlighting that these effects are experienced over the long term. Additionally, 77% connected team building to improvements in workplace morale, while 51% noted that the positive change persists in the long run.

The data is released as Gallup's most recent State of the Global Workforce report identifies that 62% of employees worldwide are not engaged in their work, and 15% are actively disengaged. These broader trends in employee engagement underscore the significance of the findings within the IT and telecoms sectors.

Beyond collaboration and morale, the study revealed further perceived benefits from participating in team building exercises. Among respondents, 83% noted improvements in their understanding of team roles, 82% reported enhanced teamwork, and 81% saw a lift in mood around the workplace.

The survey, conducted by Team Tactics, targeted UK-based professionals within the IT and telecoms sectors to obtain insights on their attitudes towards team building. It found that 84% of participants believe team building activities help their teams perform better, while 83% stated they enjoy these activities. Approximately 82% felt that team building enhanced relationships across different generations in the workplace.

The research also investigated recent participation in team building and social events among IT and telecoms professionals. It found that 91% had taken part in team building initiatives organised by their workplaces within the past two years. A slightly higher proportion, 92%, said they had attended a social event with colleagues during the same period. The findings suggest a consistent appetite for engaging with colleagues, highlighting that 92% also attended events organised independently of work during the past two years.

Attendance at team building events is widespread according to the survey, with only 3% of those polled stating they have never taken part. A further 5% reported not having attended any such events for more than three years.

Tina Benson, Founder and Managing Director at Team Tactics, said: "It's positive to see that IT and telecoms professionals are, on the whole, recognising the wide-ranging benefits team building can bring. IT organisations that aren't investing in team building, or haven't done for some time, are missing out on vital opportunities to improve team dynamics, skills and relationships. With research showing employee engagement and relationships are suffering, business leaders can't afford to turn their backs on these important issues."

She also commented on the evolving nature of team building initiatives, adding: "It's interesting to learn that, while attitudes towards team building are positive on the whole. As the scope of team building activities on offer constantly diversifies, there are more fun, engaging and meaningful ways to bring teams together than ever before. Charity and purpose-led team building activities are becoming especially sought after, helping businesses to progress towards their team and CSR goals while creating positive change for deserving causes and communities."