Running a small business doesn’t require a big team, but it definitely needs people sharing a good rapport. Team camaraderie should be a top priority, regardless of the number of people you have on board. Synergy and communication between team members can enhance collaboration and productivity. Both are game-changers for small businesses looking to do more with less.
Despite the benefits of team building, most companies fall short of the initiatives. A recent survey highlights that 73% of employees wish their employer would invest more in such activities. However, small businesses with limited funds may have valid qualms about investing thousands in employee bonding.
Fortunately, you can achieve the camaraderie goals without spending a fortune. Here are a few simple secrets small businesses can rely on to bring their employees closer.
Hire Wisely
An optimal hiring process opens the opportunity to foster a great team spirit. Small businesses should prioritize culture fits to save themselves from the cost of hiring the wrong people. At the same time, it sets them up for building a cohesive team that works like well-oiled machinery and contributes its best to the business.
The best way to hire the right fit is by including the potential employee’s managers in the interview process. They can assess how well a candidate might blend with the existing team members, considering their temperaments and soft skills. Picking the right people can prevent conflicts and help create rapport from the outset.
Encourage Good Communication
According to Zippia, about 75% of employees consider teamwork and collaboration as critical aspects. Both depend on good communication, making it the cornerstone of success for small and large teams. As an employer, you should do your bit to encourage open communication. Creating platforms for sharing ideas, concerns, and feedback is a great start.
Regular team meetings and brainstorming sessions also go a long way in keeping everyone on the same page. Since people may hesitate to speak up in small teams, you can use anonymous suggestion boxes to foster honesty. Managers should develop active listening skills and value everyone’s opinions. People feel safe and comfortable in an environment where they have the freedom of speech and expression.
Promote Team Building Activities
Team building activities create a positive work environment and foster team camaraderie. You can pick fun and meaningful initiatives even on a small budget. Try ideas like sports events, escape room challenges, and volunteering for a cause. Doing something together breaks the ice and strengthens the bonds between people.
Eating together also breaks down barriers because people bond over food. Luckily, giving a team lunch group order is easier than ever, as you can do it in a few clicks. Look for a catering website offering a variety of cuisines and diverse menus at competitive prices. That’s all you need to get your team lunch initiative off the mark.
CaterCow recommends looking for providers accommodating specific preferences and dietary needs. This way, you will have a meal everyone enjoys without worrying about allergies and restrictions. They can focus on having a good time as a team.
Encourage a Supportive Culture
Building team camaraderie is also about creating a supportive work culture where people help each other. The initiative costs nothing but empowers small businesses beyond imagination. Implement creative measures like celebrating achievements together and acknowledging team accomplishments publicly.
Encourage a sense of belonging and ensure every person on board feels valued. A supportive work environment fosters a shared sense of purpose and mutual trust. Creating mentorship programs is another way to give new employees the support they need to settle and give their best to the company.
Avoid Micromanaging
A Forbes article talks about a survey that highlighted that 79% of employees had encountered micromanagement. Additionally, 85% reported its negative impact on their morale. 36% even changed their jobs. In the long run, micromanagement can also affect team camaraderie as employees no longer trust a manager.
Small business owners should ensure that micromanagement is not a part of their work culture. This way, your managers save time and bond better with everyone else. Most importantly, your work environment stays free of toxic elements.
The Bottom Line
Building team camaraderie has no shortcuts, regardless of the number of employees on board. Rather than a proven formula, it requires empathy and emotional intelligence. Small businesses can achieve this goal with creative thinking and intentional effort.
Implementing these strategies can help you build a cohesive and motivated team that works together to achieve collective success. Consider it a small investment to create a robust foundation for your small business.
