5/10/2012

Build better teams with teambuilding exercises

Navigator Newsletter

 

icebreakers, teambuilding exercises

Ice Breakers & Team Building Exercises

By

 

Gregory P. Smith, MS

Speaker, Consultant and Trainer

 

Start Your Meetings Moving in the Right Direction!

 

How many meetings have you been to that are just the same old thing -- boring gatherings you can't wait to leave!  Here is an opportunity to make your next meeting, class, or team building event something special.

 

My name is Greg Smith. I have been a professional speaker, consultant, and trainer for over twenty years. In the hundreds of classes I have taught, I have learned one simple truth -- people learn quicker if you make classes and meetings fun and interesting.

As a result, I have compiled my favorite exercises and techniques into a 77-page book. It is cram-packed with innovative ideas and exercises to make your meetings, classes, and workshops come alive and make you a HERO with your team.

icebreakers and team building exercises

Greg Smith

Author of

 Icebreakers and Teambuilding Exercises

 

Over 64 Icebreakers and Teambuilding Activities

  • Make your classes and meetings fun! 

  • Make your meetings productive, motivating and exciting!

  • Improve communication

  • Foster creativity and innovation

  • Build strong team building skills

  • Enhance cohesiveness

  • Recognize everyone's unique talent and abilities

  • Sharpen problem-solving skills

  • Save yourself time!

Make Your Team Building Sessions Fun!

 

Included in this book is my favorite teambuilding game called the "Terrorist Toxic Explosive Situation." This is an easy to perform exercise for both adults or teens. The goal is to decontaminate a can of "toxic" popcorn that has been secretly placed in the room by terrorists. Your team must quickly come up with a plan of action, assemble tools and equipment, transfer the material into a "safe" container before the "toxic" substance explodes. This is a great game to identify the "planners, doers, and thinkers," in your group. It also demonstrates the importance of having a good plan. It comes with instructions, a list of materials, and a debriefing questionnaire to help your team understand what went right and what went wrong. Expect a million laughs!

 

"Torpedo Weapons Loading Exercise" is another very popular activity. This is a timed exercise where individuals are placed on two teams to design and construct a device to safely catch a torpedo (egg) from an elevated tripod. The team must design, construct, and complete the mission in a specific time frame. We provide you the list of materials needed, the solution, and the instructions the team must follow to complete the task.

 

These are just two of the 64 teambuilding activities and exercises you will get from the book. There are 7 different sections within this book. All the exercises are appropriate for any age group.

 

Section 1 - Quick and Easy Team Icebreakers
 

This section contains twenty-seven different ice breakers to help you keep your meetings and teams energized.  Most of these activities are simple and easy to do and do not take much time. "Toilet Paper Tango" is a fun exercise to use to for short introductions and to lighten the atmosphere at the start of a difficult or intense kind of meeting. 


Section 2 - Creative Team Brainstorming Activities

 

In this section you can choose from several different brainstorming exercises designed to help people think creatively. We provide you several different techniques to get people to go beyond normal brainstorming.

 

Section 3 - Communication Exercises

 

Do you need a few exercises to get people to communicate with each other? These three exercises are guaranteed to get people talking to each other and they will have fun to boot.


Section 4. Team Problem Solving Techniques

 

This is a great section for teachers and facilitators looking for new ways to get groups of people to work together to solve problems. The picture is a group of people using an "Affinity Diagram." Many different techniques are provided including the "Gordon/Little Group Technique" and "Osborn's Brainstorming" to name a few.

 

Section 5 - Team Building Exercises
 

This section contains several in depth, stimulating exercises designed to get groups of people working together.  Not only do you get the "Terrorist Toxic Explosive Situation" and the "Torpedo Weapons Loading Exercise," you also get several other exercises that are fun and challenging. Exercises vary in length from 15-45 minutes.
 

Section 6 - Teambuilding Case Studies
 

This section includes five case studies to help your team sharpen their problem-solving and analytical skills. I have used "Heartbreak Hotel" to train people to focus on leadership skills and problems with customer service.

 

Section 7 - Funny Stories
 

Here are several funny stories and comical antidotes to spice up your training programs. They also make great openers or closers for speeches, classes, or training events.
 

This Icebreaker Book Is a Great Resource For:

 

  • Business meetings

  • Corporate team building

  • Leadership training

  • Church groups

  • Retreats

  • Sorority get-togethers

  • Teachers

  • Team training

  • Creative problem solving

  • Planning sessions

 

Order Before Midnight and Claim

the Following Bonuses

 

 

BONUS #1  Birthday Party Ideas E-Book: This book contains 57 creative themes to make your next birthday party fun and memorable for all ages. This E-book is designed to help put the fun and originality back into birthdays. These ideas will get your creative juices flowing with original party themes, activities, gift suggestions, and places to find all the things you'll need for birthday parties.

 

BONUS #2 Tips to Energize Your Teams: Everyone has had a bad hair day, but how about a bad tie, bad hat or bad shoe day? More and more companies are putting together team contests and competitions. Another company sponsors an annual "Bowling With Turkeys" contest. Here is a special report containing 20 different and innovative tips to energize your workplace and build more fun at the office.

 

BONUS #3  Reward and Recognition Strategy for Teams: Disney World has over 20 reward and incentive programs in place. All good businesses have at least one or two. Reward and recognition programs make team members feel appreciated, improve performance, and create positive behaviors leading to success. Here is a special report providing you the ten steps on how to design a reward and recognition program for your team.

 

BONUS #4  Report on "How to Increase Job Satisfaction: So Your Workforce is Happier and More Productive" -- Good leaders create a clear sense of direction and purpose. They do so by creating an alignment between the individual and the organization. It isn't easy; in fact, it takes plenty of energy and emotion to help people see how their contributions make a difference. But clear purpose and direction--clear alignment--is a powerful strategy in today's changing workforce.

Full Money-Back Guarantee

My guarantee is simple - if you aren't happy with my book, I don't want your money. If, for any reason, you aren't thrilled and satisfied with Ice Breakers and Team Building Exercises just contact me at 800-821-2487, and I'll gladly refund 100% of your purchase price at any time.

In Summary, Here Is What You Get:

  • Secure, online ordering

  • Complete, easy-to-follow directions

  • Over 64 fun and unique team building ideas, ice breakers and activities

  • List of materials

  • Printable handouts and checklists

  • Hyperlink navigation

  • Time requirements for each exercise

  • Ability to download in seconds

  • Activities to keep the meeting productive

  • Procedures to follow

  • Full, 100% money-back guarantee

  • 1-800 support line to call if you have questions

  • You'll also get several great bonuses!

Three Purchase Options

 

You can purchase this book either as an E-book, E-book with Back-up CD, or a printed book.

 

Choose either. . .


E-Book Only

 

Automatic Download of the E-book within seconds after you click on the "Add to Your Shopping Cart" button.

 

You can read it on your computer in PDF format if you like, or print it out on your printer. No tax or shipping is charged on E-books.  

 

Includes four bonuses

 

$39.95

Icebreakers E-Book with Back-Up CD

 

Automatic Download of the E-book within seconds after you click on the "Add to Your Shopping Cart" button.

 

We will mail you the Back-Up CD which includes the entire book in both Word and in .Pdf format.  The CD gives you the capability of cutting and pasting, printing off handouts, and the added insurance you don't lose or forget where you saved your E-book.

  • Free U.S. Shipping

$49.95

Soft Cover Printed BookIcebreakers, teambuilding exercises, meeting icebreakers

BEST SAVINGS!

 

Includes:

  • 77-page book (Spiral bound)

  • Backup CD (Includes Word and .Pdf files)

  • Usually shipped within 24 hours

  • Overnight shipping optional

  • Four Free bonuses

  • Free subscription to the Navigator Newsletter

$59.95

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Gregory P. Smith, Editor, Navigator Newsletter
2814 Hwy 212, SW  Conyers, GA  30094  USA - 770-860-9464

http://www.chartcourse.com


Gregory P. Smith
President/CEO
Chart Your Course International
2814 Hwy 212,SW
Conyers, GA 30094
770-860-9464
800-821-2487
http://www.ChartCourse.com



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5/01/2012

Upcoming DISC Training Programs

DISC training, disc certification training, disc assessments

           

 

Upcoming DISC Certification Training Classes

We sent you this because you are a Navigator Newsletter subscriber. Please forward to your friends.


Individual personality styles and preferences have a direct impact on our interpersonal relationships at home and at the workplace. People differ from each other in fundamental ways including their values, behaviors, talents, temperaments, wants and beliefs. Our DISC training programs and assessments help hire the right people, reduce conflict, improve communication and unleash team performance.

Upon successful completion of the training, you may teach and conduct workshops in your organization or use it in y our consulting and training business.
 

We deliver our DISC assessment training programs in several formats:


DISC CERTIFICATION TRAINING WEB SEMINAR

Class is limited to five people. Training is conducted live over the phone/web. Group sessions conducted in three-90 minute sessions.

 

Upcoming dates:
 

May Class

May 14,17,21

2:00-3:30 ET

 

June Class

June 4,7,11

2:00-3:30 ET

 

Cost: $895 per person 

  • Or call 800-821-2487/770-860-9464

 

For more information:
http://ow.ly/6Ogw4

 

To register online:


Testimonial

 

"Greg Smith recently trained me on the DISC profile. He is a dynamic and charismatic trainer and facilitator. Greg is excellent at establishing clear directions and explaining why we're doing what we're doing. He communicated the information in a clear and easy manner for me to learn and comprehend the material. He was also very patient and flexible with his time. Greg has a very warm and gracious spirit and is exceptionally helpful. Immediately following Greg’s training I felt fully prepared and ready to tackle my first DISC facilitation assignment. I strongly recommend Greg to anyone who needs a trainer/motivator with a positive attitude and wonderful teaching style."

Eric Lewis
CEO – OneSCSI


DISC Training Program on CD 

 

Become a expert on DISC from the comfort of your home/office. This program teaches you how to use and interpret DISC assessments.  There is no time limit—use them as often as you like. These are audio/video recordings of Greg's live webseminar DISC training program.  The program includes package of 3 CD’s.  Each CD is 90 minutes long.  One CD shows you how to conduct your own DISC workshop.  The certification exam is not included.

 

Cost: $295


For more information


If you find our information interesting, please send it to your friends. The Navigator newsletter is received by over 35,000 subscribers in 49 countries, in addition to other websites and magazines.

 

Copyright 2012 by Chart Your Course International--reproduction for publication is encouraged, with the following attribution: From "Chart Your Course International," by Gregory P. Smith, Copyright 2012. (770) 860-9464  (800) 821-2487

 

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Gregory P. Smith
President/CEO
Chart Your Course International
2814 Hwy 212,SW
Conyers, GA 30094
770-860-9464
800-821-2487
http://www.ChartCourse.com


4/17/2012

Navigator: Employee Recognition Ideas Drive Motivation

Leadership development, change management,business keynote speaker, keynote speaker: Gregory P. Smith

 Navigator #187


           

PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE LEAD NAVIGATOR

 

Do you have anything to contribute?  We are looking for a few self-motivated individuals who have written business articles or like to blog.  No money, but the rewards and compensation are outstanding -- Exposure to a world-wide audience and the personal satisfaction of making a difference in other's lives.  If interested, please send a sample of your writing and a note to jan@chartcourse.com

 

Charting your course!

President and Lead Navigator

Gregory P. Smith

 

Employee Recognition Ideas Drive Motivation and Job Satisfaction

 

Mark Twain once said, "I can live for two months on a good compliment." Employee recognition is a powerful tool in building morale, motivation and job satisfaction. A pat on the back, a personal note from a peer or a supervisor does wonders. Small, informal celebrations are many times more effective than a once a quarter or once a year formal event.

Employee appreciation and recognition are critical to achieving organizational goals. All humans need to feel appreciated. In a survey conducted by Robert Half International, the results showed that employee recognition and appreciation was the number one reason employees stay in their work environment with fair compensation being secondary.


Here are a few employee recognition ideas to consider:

Drive My BMW

Graham Weston, co-founder and CEO of Rackspace Managed Hosting, gives the keys to his BMW M3 convertible for a week to his top performing employees. This creative way to reward employees has a bigger impact than cash. He says, “If you gave somebody a $200 bonus, it wouldn’t mean very much. When someone gets to drive my car for a week, they never forget it.” The important point is pay and money does not necessarily create job satisfaction. There has to be something more.

The Extra Mile

United Services Automobile Association (USAA) provides blank “Thank You” note stationary to their workers for a program called The Extra Mile. Employees are encouraged to say “Thank You&rdquo ; to each other for the help they receive at work. The most surprising thing happened on the first day the notes were printed. They ran out! The company couldn’t keep up with the demand.

President’s Employee Recognition Dinner

Schreiber Foods, Inc. holds an annual President’s Employee Recognition Dinner. Throughout the year employees nominate each other for five award categories: leadership, quality improvement, innovation, community involvement, etc. A team then evaluates the nominations, and the winners selected. They are then announced and recognized at the President’s Dinner. The recipients receive a crystal award and a bonus.

Before embarking on creating an employee recognition program, take the time to first discover what maybe causing employees to be un-motivated. Identify and fix the de-motivators first.


Source: Dynamic Ideas to Reward, Energize and Motivate Your Teams
 

SUBMIT YOUR EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION IDEA

We are on a search for innovative ways to keep people motivated and engaged at work.  We would love to hear from you.  Give us your suggestions on our blog.

Who Is Speaking at Your Meeting?

 

Keep us in mind if you need a speaker, trainer or facilitator for an upcoming meeting or conference. Contact Jan King for additional information. In addition to Greg, we have several highly capable individuals to provide a wide range of services.  Call or fill out our meeting request form. 770-860-9464

 

UPCOMING EVENTS AND CLASSES

 

Great Customer Service! How to Create an Exceptional Service Team Webinar

 

May 3, 2012
3:00-4:00 p.m. ET

When your customer service team loses their drive, it’s detrimental to productivity, profits and personnel. Learn how to create an excellent customer service strategy and motivate your service team to provide superior service, inspiring customers to return and spread the word. Join us for this 60-minute webinar where you and your colleagues will discover:

  • Strategies to Boost Morale and Work Ethic Among the Front-Line Staff

  • Tips and Tricks to Increase Profitability Through Stellar Customer Service

  • How to Promote Customer Brand Loyalty: Keep Them Coming Back for More

  • Ways to Identify, Reward & Train Your Customer Service Team: Be the Best Around


Cost: $199
Recording and handouts will be available

For information
http://is.gd/4OK5Xt

To register
http://tiny.cc/x28ucw


 

DISC Certification Training Program

(Webseminar)

Individual personality styles and preferences have a direct impact on our interpersonal relationships at home and at the workplace. People differ from each other in fundamental ways including their values, behaviors, talents, temperaments, wants and beliefs. Our DISC training programs and assessments help hire the right people, reduce conflict, improve communication and unleash team performance.

 

Our live web based DISC training program is a popular choice for those who would prefer to avoid travel and enjoy the convenience of a webinar format. Classes are conducted in three, 90 minutes sessions.

Upcoming dates:

May Class
May 14,17,21
2:00-3:30 ET


June Class
June 4,7,11
2:00-3:30 ET


Cost: $895 per person
http://ow.ly/6Ogw4

Workplace Motivators Individual Assessment

Everyone is motivated by different things. The Workplace Motivators report helps clarify and identify the six inner drives people bring to the job. What motivates employees to sell, manage, service or connect with people the way they do?  This reports shows why people differ and helps you place the right people in the right jobs and motivate them to achieve more for the organization. The answers to these questions are all based on motivators. Motivators are the drivers behind our behavior -- what motivates our actions. This report helps illuminate these motivating factors and attitudes and enables you to understand the driving forces behind your/their decisions.

View a sample report

 

View all or our reports

Free Shipping

Customer Service Training Video Library


Train your entire workforce in the art of exceptional customer service. The Service First Video Library is a powerful video-based training system making it easy to train any number of employees - with no limits - with immediate results. The program includes 12 videos, slides, facilitator guide and handouts. The videos are appropriate for any industry.

Includes free shipping globally
$1497
http://www.chartcourse.com/servicevideo.htm

Online Learning 2.0

We’re introducing Vital Online 2.0, a technology that will save your organization both time and money. Our user-friendly online campus begins with 12 programs from the Vital Learning Leadership Series. Your participants can work at their own pace, and we also offer a blended approach (classroom and online classes) that maximizes social networking tools. We can also easily create a branded portal campus especially for your organization.

Vital Learning’s online courses start with the 12 core programs, the Leadership Essentials, and 23 additional courses in leadership, customer service, sales and productivity. We invite you to take a few minutes to experience our free demo today.

For more information:
http://www.chartcourse.com/VL-onlinecourses.html

Fired Up! Leading Your Organization to Achieve Exceptional Results
 

Build a high-energy workplace that accelerates performance, generates more profits, increases sales and provides outstanding customer service

 

$24.95
 

More information

 

If you find our information interesting, please send it to your friends. The Navigator newsletter is received by over 35,000 subscribers in 49 countries, in addition to other websites and magazines.

 

Copyright 2012 by Chart Your Course International--reproduction for publication is encouraged, with the following attribution: From "Chart Your Course International," by Gregory P. Smith, Copyright 2012. (770) 860-9464  (800) 821-2487

 

Subscribe Today!



If you no longer wish to receive communication from us:
Cancel

To update your contact information:
Update



Gregory P. Smith
President/CEO
Chart Your Course International
2814 Hwy 212,SW
Conyers, GA 30094
770-860-9464
800-821-2487
http://www.ChartCourse.com