20 Minute Team Building Activities To Boost Morale & Collaboration

Written by:
Eli Robinson
Updated:
August 5, 2024

20 minute team building activities are a fantastic way to energize your team, encourage collaboration, and inject some fun into the workday.

Are you…

  • Struggling to foster collaboration and boost morale within your team in a limited timeframe?
  • Finding it challenging to engage team members effectively during short meetings or breaks?
  • Wanting to maximize the impact of team building activities to enhance productivity and cohesion?

When I'm looking for quick and effective ways to engage my team, I often turn to trivia quizzes. These are not only entertaining but also great for promoting teamwork and sparking conversations.

This article is for:

  • Team leaders and managers seeking efficient ways to boost morale and foster collaboration during brief periods.
  • HR professionals and event organizers looking for impactful activities to enhance team dynamics in short meetings or workshops.
  • Anyone interested in promoting teamwork, communication, and positive relationships within their team.

Here are 10 activities that can help you build a stronger, more cohesive team.

20 Minute Team Building Activities [10 Tried & Tested Options]

1 - Trivia Quizzes

I recommend starting with trivia quizzes because they are versatile and can be tailored to any team's interests.

If I'm planning a trivia session, I like to use Water Cooler Trivia. This platform offers a variety of trivia questions that can be customized to suit different themes and difficulty levels, making it easy to keep everyone engaged.

It's a hassle-free way to add some excitement to your team's routine without requiring a lot of preparation. You can split the team into small groups or have them compete individually, keeping the atmosphere light and competitive.

2 - Two Truths and a Lie

Another quick and fun activity is "Two Truths and a Lie." In my opinion, this game is excellent for building personal connections among team members. Each person shares three statements about themselves – two that are true and one that is a lie. The rest of the team then guesses which statement is the lie.

This game not only encourages communication but also allows team members to learn more about each other in a light-hearted setting. It's an easy icebreaker that can be done at the beginning of meetings to warm everyone up.

3 - Speed Networking

Speed networking is something I've always found beneficial for fostering connections quickly. Set up a series of short, timed conversations where team members pair up and discuss specific topics or answer icebreaker questions.

Rotating partners every few minutes ensures that everyone gets to interact with multiple colleagues, building familiarity and rapport across the team. This activity is particularly useful for larger teams or for integrating new members, as it ensures that everyone has a chance to connect.

4 - Pictionary

If I'm aiming to bring out creativity and teamwork, Pictionary is my go-to activity. Split the team into small groups and have each group take turns drawing and guessing words or phrases. This game not only encourages creative thinking but also promotes cooperation and quick thinking under pressure.

For an added twist, you can use industry-specific terms or inside jokes to make it more personalized and engaging for your team.

5 - Office Scavenger Hunt

For a more interactive experience, I try to organize an office scavenger hunt. Create a list of items or clues that team members need to find within a set time limit. This activity encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and a bit of friendly competition.

It's an excellent way to break up the day and get everyone moving. You can also incorporate tasks that require team members to work together or use their knowledge of the office and its operations.

6 - Quick Debates

Hosting quick debates on fun and non-controversial topics can be a great way to develop communication skills. I like to pick topics that are light-hearted yet engaging, such as "Is pineapple an acceptable pizza topping?" This activity encourages participants to think on their feet and articulate their points clearly while also listening to opposing views. It's a dynamic way to foster critical thinking and respectful dialogue.

7 - Team Jeopardy

For me, Team Jeopardy is a perfect blend of fun and competition. Create categories and questions tailored to your team's interests or industry. Divide the team into groups and let them compete to answer questions and earn points.

This not only tests their knowledge but also promotes teamwork and strategic thinking. It can also be a great way to review important information or reinforce training material in an engaging format.

8 - Mindfulness and Meditation

I often incorporate a short mindfulness or meditation session into team-building activities. Guided breathing exercises or a brief meditation can help reduce stress and improve focus. This is a simple yet effective way to promote mental well-being and encourage a positive work environment.

I find that even a few minutes of mindfulness can make a significant difference in how team members feel and interact with each other.

9 - Problem-Solving Challenges

Setting up problem-solving challenges, such as escape room scenarios or puzzle-solving activities, can be highly engaging. These activities require team members to work together to find solutions, enhancing their collaboration and critical thinking skills. I find that these challenges can be both fun and educational, providing a unique opportunity for team members to use their creativity and logic in a collaborative setting.

10 - Storytelling

Encouraging storytelling sessions is another way to build connections. I usually ask team members to share a story about a memorable experience or a significant lesson they’ve learned. This activity fosters empathy and understanding, creating a more cohesive and supportive team environment.

Storytelling can also be a powerful way to share knowledge and experiences, allowing team members to learn from each other's successes and challenges.

My Closing Thoughts On Team Building Activities You Can Complete In 20 Minutes

In my experience, incorporating these quick and engaging activities into your team's schedule can significantly enhance morale and collaboration. Whether you're aiming to boost creativity, improve communication, or simply have some fun, these activities are a great way to achieve those goals.

Starting with trivia quizzes, especially through platforms like Water Cooler Trivia, can set the tone for a more connected and enthusiastic team. So, give these activities a try and watch your team spirit soar!

Get started with Water Cooler Trivia today or request a demo.