The strength of every successful team lies in mutual understanding and recognizing individual talents. But how is such understanding and balance achieved among team members? The answer lies in connecting through experiences that encourage collaboration, creativity, and trust. A good tool for fostering such experiences is team-building activities. Team building is not just an opportunity to relax and have fun outside the office; it is also a chance for the team to discover how all members behave within the team and in which situations their natural roles come to the forefront.
The Belbin Team Roles® model is a methodology based on Dr. Meredith Belbin's research and can be key to better understanding team dynamics and individual differences. This methodology is a good tool and foundation for teambuilding activities. The Belbin methodology helps teams interactively and effectively to identify individual strengths and align different approaches to work so that members can achieve excellent results together.
What does Belbin team building look like, and why are fun activities with precise goals important?
In interactive games, challenges, and simulations as part of teambuilding, team members often unconsciously act by their natural roles. Some members will stand out as leaders, while others will demonstrate creative ideas, precision, or conflict-resolution skills.
It is through fun activities that a clearer picture can emerge of how each member contributes to the common goal while strengthening the sense of belonging and mutual trust within the team. Here’s an example of such a game that can be used in Belbin teambuilding to help team members better understand each other and improve communication and team cohesion.
Game example: “Building a bridge”
The game goal is to construct a stable bridge that can withstand a given weight within a limited time and with limited resources.
Game rules:
- Each team receives the same set of materials and is tasked with building a bridge that will connect two points.
- The bridge must be strong enough to hold a small weight.
- The team has a limited "budget" of points that can be spent on additional materials if needed, simulating real project resources.
- The time for constructing the bridge is limited.
- After constructing the bridge, testing and a brief presentation by each team follow.
What can be discovered during the game?
During a Belbin teambuilding activity, SELECTIO HR experts moderate the activity (game) and evaluate the behaviour of team members while building the bridge, as well as during the short final presentation. Based on the team members’ behaviour, HR experts determine which of the 9 Belbin team roles individual members belong to. This way, interesting insights can be revealed about team members’ behaviour patterns:
Who takes the lead and coordinates activities?
During the game, it’s possible to observe who takes the lead, directs team activities, assigns tasks, and organizes the work of other members. The Coordinator recognizes individual strengths, delegates tasks effectively, and ensures all team members feel included. Their contribution is crucial for team collaboration and the successful organization of activities.
Who resolves urgent issues and responds quickly in crises?
In moments when obstacles arise or quick action is required, the Shaper takes the initiative and ensures the team continues working toward the goal. The Shaper brings energy, focuses on problem-solving, and isn’t afraid to make tough decisions. Their role is vital in overcoming stressful situations and achieving results.
Who brings creative solutions to challenges?
A team member who introduces original ideas and proposes innovative approaches stands out as a creative force. During the game, their creativity shines when the team encounters obstacles or needs unconventional solutions. This member brings freshness and inspiration, enabling the team to achieve better results. According to the Belbin methodology, this behaviour is characteristic of the Plant.
Who focuses on the big picture and long-term goals?
The Monitor Evaluator analyses all options, considers strategies, and ensures that the team’s decisions are based on logic. They point out potential issues and help the team make objective decisions. Their analytical perspective contributes to the quality and stability of the final structure.
Who carefully follows instructions and checks the stability of the construction?
The Completer Finisher ensures that all tasks are performed precisely and without errors. They meticulously monitor details, check the stability of the construction, and adhere to the game’s rules. Their attention to detail and perfectionism guarantee the technical accuracy of the project.
Who methodically executes plans?
The Implementer excels in organization and has a structured approach to tasks. They efficiently translate ideas into concrete steps and ensure that team efforts progress according to plan. Their practicality and discipline are essential for the timely completion of the project.
Who is flexible and adapts to the team’s needs?
A team member who naturally takes on the role of the Resource Investigator explores additional opportunities, suggests optimal use of resources, and adapts to new circumstances. They bring energy and enthusiasm to the team, and their ability to find solutions within given constraints can be crucial for the project’s success.
Who stands out in terms of technical skills or precision in execution?
The Specialist demonstrates deep knowledge and expertise in specific tasks required for the project. Their technical skills, such as precise measurements or executing complex details, are key to high-quality implementation. The Specialist forms the foundation of technical excellence in the team.
Who motivates and ensures a positive atmosphere?
The Teamworker fosters harmony within the team, boosts morale, and ensures smooth collaboration. Their contribution becomes evident during tense moments, as they resolve conflicts, motivate members, and create a positive atmosphere. Their empathy and support ensure successful joint efforts.
After the game, teams analyse their collaboration and evaluate which strategies proved the most successful. They also assess how individual team members reacted in critical moments and the roles they assumed. This analysis enables the recognition of Belbin roles in a practical and fun way, allowing the team to become aware of their strengths as well as areas for improvement.
What benefits does Belbin team building bring to companies?
Before organizing a team-building activity, it is important to define key HR objectives. Belbin team building can help achieve HR goals through reflection and understanding that strengthen daily team collaboration. By identifying team roles through Belbin team building, an organization can better understand how to allocate tasks and develop strategies tailored to the team’s specific dynamics. Team diversity and the conscious alignment of roles increase productivity, reduce conflicts, and contribute to greater employee motivation. Furthermore, fostering open communication and active listening enables the team to solve problems more effectively, build mutual trust, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Fun and engaging activities like "Building a Bridge" allow the team to naturally recognize their own potential and the contribution of each member. Through such games, team communication, trust, and a sense of shared success are developed. When a team recognizes its strengths and roles through play, the results become visible—not just in theory but also in practice on specific team assignments.
If you want your teams to learn in a fun way that diversity is not an obstacle but their greatest strength, contact us!
