How to Plan a Team Building Event People Actually Enjoy(No eye rolls. No awkward icebreakers. Just real connection.)

Holly Hartman
May 4
2 min read

Let’s be honest—“team building” often gets a bad rap. The moment that calendar invite hits, half your team groans and the other half starts planning excuses. But when done right, team-building events can actually be the highlight of your team’s year.

This guide breaks down how to plan a team experience that sparks connection, not awkwardness.

1. Know Your Why

Before choosing the activity, identify the real goal.

Is it to:

Build trust across departments?
Improve morale during a tough season?
Celebrate a win?
Onboard a new group of hires?

Tip: The clearer your intention, the better your outcome (and your ROI).

2. Think Connection Over Competition

The best team-building events foster collaboration—not just winners and losers.

Choose formats that:

Invite everyone to participate
Support a mix of personalities (introverts + extroverts)
Create moments of shared success

This is where tabletop games shine.

3. Choose the Right Format for Your Team

Not every team wants a ropes course or a three-hour seminar.

Look for:

Low-pressure environments
Comfortable physical settings (indoor/outdoor, seated, no gear required)
Formats that balance structure and freedom (like guided game nights)

4. Don’t DIY Everything

Just like you wouldn’t have your accountant run the karaoke machine, don’t put the burden of planning on someone who won’t enjoy it.

Pro tip: Bring in a partner (like GTG!) who can handle the flow, keep people engaged, and customize the experience to your team’s needs.

5. Ask for Feedback—And Actually Use It

End your event with a short pulse check. What did they love? What could be better? This helps you improve the next one—and shows your team you care.

Final Thoughts:

Team building doesn’t have to be cringey. When you lead with intention and let people connect naturally, you create space for trust, laughter, and real culture-building.

Want a team event your employees will actually look forward to?

We bring the games, the facilitation, and the connection. 👉 Explore GTG Corporate Events

👥 About the Facilitators

Good Tabletop Gaming (GTG) is led by Matthew Bielanski and Holly Hartman, two experienced facilitators who bring professionalism, play, and people-first values to every event.

🎲 Matthew Bielanski is a lifelong gamer and seasoned Game Master with over 20 years of experience running RPG campaigns, organizing game conventions, and hosting strategic corporate play sessions.
🌟 Holly Hartman is a multi–award-winning community builder, certified group facilitator, and leadership expert with over 250+ hosted events. She’s known for blending fun with strategy, inclusion, and intentional design.

Together, they turn simple game nights into culture-shifting experiences that help teams reconnect—no screens, no stress.