Reasons To Have An Icebreaker


Fresh recruits are generally a little tense about the company they are about to join. On the first day, they fear being dumped with too much information, which they are expected to understand and implement very soon. So the authorities need to put the new joiners at ease and create a positive and welcoming environment. A workspace that encourages self-expression and flexibility ensures the productivity of employees and the organization's success in the long run.

Teamwork is essential to allow an easy flow or exchange of ideas among co-workers and prevent only exclusive or separate inner circles. Icebreakers are a great exercise to achieve transparency and togetherness at work. Icebreaking games, such as "2 Truths and a Lie", require participants to know each other at a deeper level, lighten the mood, and demand familiarity for better performance. Orientation of recruits with support from existing employees or seniors is an effective way to encourage comfortable collaborations.

Simple games prepare our brains for planning and problem-solving. Well-researched and carefully chosen activities geared towards particular groups and outcomes are worth the time. Keep reading to know why you need an icebreaker for the recruits.

1. To speed up the learning process

Introductions by old employees detailing their job and department during orientation can help a new employee feel more connected and comfortable speaking to the seniors for guidance. When a company introduces its joiners to their responsibilities and co-workers and ensures that the workplace is always open for problem-solving, it helps the newcomers to ask questions, address any concerns and feel more valued. As a result, the company reduces costs associated with training and learning the job and improves productivity and long-term retention.

2. To reduce anxiety

Generally speaking, when put in a new and strange situation or environment, most people tend to feel anxious, which delays learning. Companies that start their orientation with team building icebreakers and clear communication about the responsibilities and expectations of a joiner's new position are more likely to rapidly develop employees with key skills. Icebreaker activities that depend on the interdependencies of a team can help reduce anxiety when a newcomer finds common ground with others.

3. To develop new bonds

In-person group training motivates participants and encourages good results. Icebreaker activities like "Things in Common" can aid team building as the recruits are supposed to discuss and find out the commonality among them, like favourite music or cuisine. Research in social psychology says that common interests, likes, or dislikes can trigger empathy and develop new bonds. A group of like-minded individuals is often competitive and motivated. The more engaged the employees, the more productive the outcome is, enhancing retention and revenue.

4. To know the mentors/seniors

Not all new hires are comfortable going around the workplace with questions and asking for feedback. Mentors are a key resource for a company. Icebreakers or introductions are an important part of building rapport with new employees. The games or activities in icebreaking are meant to help participants relax and ease into a fun-filled learning situation.

When an organization provides a team of old employees for the recruits' support, it lifts the performance pressure off their shoulders. The experienced workers may also share the experiences of their first days at work, which might help blow off steam. It helps the newcomers feel relaxed when they know that they have their mentors' support when contributing a new idea.

Conclusion

There are many corporate team-building activities. You must first carefully assess your organization's staffing and work pressure to consult with a professional team building and leadership company.