In a multilingual team, linguistic and cultural diversity is a wealth but it can also be a source of misunderstandings and barriers to communication. Organizing a team building activity then becomes an essential way to strengthen cohesion and facilitate exchanges. However, finding an ideal activity for everyone is very complicated.
What are the challenges and needs for team building with a multilingual team?
Working in a team where several languages are spoken is enriching but it can also pose real-world problems such as:
- Difficult communication : Some information may be misunderstood or lost in translation from one language to another.
- A feeling of exclusion : Team members may feel isolated if their language or culture is poorly represented.
- Lack of cohesion : Language barriers can hinder the development of a strong team spirit.
- Lack of trust : Members who do not speak the main language in the company (often English) very well will be less comfortable sharing their ideas and comments.
Faced with these challenges, companies need for team building:
- Create an inclusive space where everyone can participate, regardless of their language level and cultural background.
- Strengthening ties through accessible and stimulating activities for all.
- Use pictorial material with as little written text as possible
- Encourage collaboration by allowing everyone to express themselves and participate.
Board game activities are the ideal activity for multilingual groups
Board games combine interaction, fun, and caring making them a perfect tool for bringing diverse teams together. Here’s why:
1. Simple and easy to understand rules
Many board games have easy-to-understand rules. For example, games like Album, Dobble or Dixit rely on visuals rather than words, which reduces language difficulties.
- Advantage : Everyone can participate, regardless of their language level.
2. A universal language
The mechanics of some games make them playable without speaking. Interaction and communication are still present but speaking is secondary to playing. This allows participants to collaborate or compete without relying entirely on language.
- Example : Cooperative games like Magic Maze or The Mind encourage non-verbal communication and mutual aid.
3. Promote humor and relaxation
Board games create light and funny moments, conducive to releasing pressure and bonding. Language misunderstandings often become sources of amusement rather than frustration.
- Idea : Offer games like Top Ten , Concept or Imagine that incorporate guessing games.
4. Strengthen collaboration
Cooperative games encourage teams to work together to achieve a common goal. These situations mirror corporate work while remaining fun.
- Example : Unlock!, an escape game that can be played anywhere, allows people to think collectively even when using different languages.
Board games are more than just a pastime: they are an effective solution to bring together members of a multilingual team. By focusing on simple mechanics, a more visual than written approach and collaborative dynamics, they allow everyone to actively participate beyond language barriers.
So why not turn your next team building session into a fun adventure? Your multilingual team will thank you for it! 😊