"I initiate a few team building events per year with my team. Sometimes it's a family potluck or picnic in a park, other times, its a group volunteer effort at the soup kitchen. We do a lot together as a group. It's important for bonding."

"I have never worked in an organization where team-building is a focus, but that sounds lovely! What kind of team-building activities have you done in the past?"

"Team building activities in our office are always hilarious because we have such a funny and expressive group of people. One time, we built an entire obstacle course out of office supplies, and everyone had to participate. We had awards and all. I believe these small things are what makes an employee engaged in their job, even on the toughest of days."

"Our store often has small in-store competitions geared to sales or gaining repeat business. These fun little competitions will often have a small prize attached like a Starbucks gift card, for instance. These activities are fun and get us helping each other succeed, as well."

"We have a few professional development days per year where our entire faculty will attend courses and workshops. Much of the work is independent, but some of it is group based as well. It's nice to collaborate with my team outside of our regular workday."

If you have ever participated in a ropes course or a trust fall, then you have engaged in team building exercises! Of course, most examples of team-building do not need to be that extreme. Any activity or company effort that motivates teams and builds trust among co-workers is considered a team-building exercise.

Many companies will offer team experiences to help build stable groups who collaborate and communicate better. If you have experience as a participant or leader, share your knowledge and be sure to highlight your biggest takeaway from experience.

"My company holds a company-wide retreat every Christmas season, and I have participated the past three years. We usually take a weekend to go to a resort that offers exercises such as trail riding, mountain climbing, and zip lining. It helps everyone to share some great laughs, and sometimes - even our fears. I believe that team building is a vital part of creating an environment of trust and collaboration in the workplace."