Highly productive work teams have been studied to identify common denominators. Such winning teams have been found to participate in activities above and beyond the office. From forming a softball team to service work, personal bonds strengthen work bonds. In particular, community service projects create a spirit of camaraderie which often carries over to the office. Although it comes as a surprise to most people, people in the 25-44 year old age group are the most active volunteers, with 59 percent giving of their time and energy.
Volunteer work is a great leveler among individuals.
When everyone rolls up their sleeves to help plant trees, or stage a road-block for the United Way, staff see each other and their manager in a positive light. If you do decide on volunteer work, be sure to get staff input on which project to pursue and what dates work out for best for everyone. A sincere effort to communicate a caring attitude goes a long way in team building and retaining staff. Yet, only about 40 percent said their company ever recognized them in this way. Years ago, the famous Hawthorne experiments showed that people express more interest in their work when management shows an interest in them.