Team Identity Symbol Elicitation
This activity helps teams strengthen their sense of belonging by collaboratively defining and adopting a symbol that represents their shared identity. It fosters cohesion and reinforces the team's purpose.
Use this method when a team is newly formed, experiencing low morale, or needs to reinforce its shared purpose and values. It's particularly useful after a period of change or disruption.
Solves: Lack of team cohesion, unclear team identity, low morale
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Step 1: Frame the activity (5 min). Explain the importance of team identity and the purpose of finding a symbol.
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Step 2: Individual Brainstorming (10 min). Each team member silently brainstorms potential symbols that represent the team's identity, values, and purpose. They write down or sketch their ideas.
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Step 3: Share and Discuss (20 min). Each person shares their ideas with the team, explaining why they chose those symbols. Facilitate a discussion to explore the different perspectives and meanings.
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Step 4: Narrow Down and Vote (15 min). As a team, narrow down the options to a few favorites. Use a voting method (e.g., dot voting) to select the final symbol.
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Step 5: Define the Meaning (10 min). Discuss and agree on the meaning and significance of the chosen symbol. Document this meaning for future reference.
- Encourage creative and unconventional ideas.
- Ensure everyone has a chance to share their thoughts.
- Help the team reach a consensus without forcing a decision.
- Use a visual metaphor exercise to generate symbol ideas.
- Invite an artist to create a custom symbol based on the team's input.