What Was Your Worst and Least Favorite Workplace Event
I think that one of the worst trends of the previous decade were some of the "team building" exercises, where co-workers were organized into groups to make or do something that had nothing to do with their actual jobs (such as building a model rocket or competing in 3-legged gunny sack races). These "team building" events were particularly awful when they happened in off-site locations where drinking was involved.
Describe What Made This Event or Happening Your Worst
I attended one of these events. The company had contracted with an outside vendor that specialized in motivational team building. The event took place at a conference center. In addition to the horrors of the day (ridiculous exercises directed by a bunch of gym-teacher types with bad attitudes and whistles around their necks), the night's festivities included tossing people into the swimming pool. I went back to my room as soon as possible, but I heard that I missed the good parts -- drunk and near-naked co-workers chasing each other through the halls, someone throwing up in the pool, etc. This was supposed to forge better relationships? If juicy gossip and grudges were the goal, the event was a big success!
Advice
- If forced to attend one of these events, keep your cool. Say as little as possible and for God's sake, don't drink too much. Maybe you won't be seen as an enthusiastic team player, but at least you won't be seen as a fool.
