Culture Builder #4: Intentional Fun
A friend told me recently he overheard a co-worker saying, "Just because we work together doesn't mean I have to like you." Really? How can we be pulling together, working for the same vision, attempting to achieve the same goals–if we are only tolerating each others' presence? And do we think the people we serve are automatons and won't pick up on the tension?
A senior pastor once told me that his attitude about his staff was, "I don't want to be your friend. Just get your d*** job done." And he couldn't figure out why he had a high turnover rate.
It isn't just a job. It's not just about fulfilling a responsibility. It is also about doing life together. It is about having fun, working through conflict, accomplishing ministry, and yes–being highly effective in our jobs.
At Granger, we value chemistry and affinity as high (if not higher) than education, skills, experience and passion. And that is why we intentionally plan time to have fun. In the old days when our staff was much smaller, we would all hop on the shuttle bus and go to a movie, or out to eat, or miniature golfing. These days, much of that happens in a decentralized fashion.
For example, our communications team recently headed to a nearby town for an IMAX movie, our children's team experienced a high ropes course together, and the arts staff gathered for a family pool party and cook-out.
The affinity doesn't grow on its' own. It must be nurtured with intentionality. It is worth an investment of time and money on "fun" to build a culture where your staff is energized and committed to each other for the long-term.
Previous Culture Builders: 1) Continually share stories, 2) Always believe the best, 3) Let leaders lead.
Posted by Tim Stevens | 5 comments
Beth Taylor
This is true. we have always hired based on the three C’s…character, chemistry and competence. Competence can often be taught, but chemistry and character cannot. And if character is lacking…it is a no go.
Nate Beaird
This is a good idea! We intentionally plan fun IN the office, but sometimes, we need to go OUTSIDE the office. I may try to do this on a regular basis- an afternoon movie could do wonders for the rest of the week’s work!
Thanks, Tim!
Pat
My favourite staff relationship-building activity I remember was an across-town scavenger hunt. 2 teams of 5-6 people each had 10 tasks to complete, which were documented on camera. These included a picture in front of a hospital sign, walking through a drive-through coffee shop, finding a children’s book in the libary, etc.
It was a really great time, and we had some fantastic pictures after it all that we got to share and laugh about later.
Laurabo
oh I totally agree having worked in both environments. If you enjoy working together you enjoy going into work but if you don’t then you don’t even want to get up in the mornings. I refuse to spend my days working with people who cannot get along or like each other.
Tom Becker
That was one of the things I really liked and still miss about my former position as worship arts pastor. We would intentionally plan fun things together. Things like pool parties, barbecues, outings, conferences, plus we always celebrated someones birthday at our rehearsals. Sometimes we even skipped rehearsal to just get together and have fun. I miss that.