Welcome & Warm-Ups (10-15 minutes) Atlanta Challenge staff welcome participants and set expectations and ground rules for the day’s events. We then lead fun, high-energy warm-up activities that break the ice and get people interacting. Participants quickly shift from “meeting mode” into a more engaged, collaborative mindset as the energy in the room begins to build.
The Teamwork Compass®® (15-20 minutes) We introduce the Teamwork Compass®®, a powerful framework that helps leaders understand the essential ingredients of successful teamwork and how different people naturally contribute in different ways. Through an interactive discussion, participants begin recognizing both the strengths and blind spots that commonly appear on teams. This model becomes the foundation for the rest of the experience and helps participants connect the activities to real workplace dynamics.
The Quest (60-120 minutes) The group works through a series of hands-on teamwork challenges that require communication, problem-solving, adaptability, planning, creativity, and collaboration under pressure. Throughout the experience, teams naturally uncover patterns in how they communicate, make decisions, handle pressure, and support each other.
Here are a few example activities:
- Warp Speed: Teams must transport a series of objects around the group in a precise order with zero mistakes while racing against the clock. As rounds continue, teams discover that working harder is not enough. They must rethink communication, process improvement, role clarity, and efficiency in order to improve performance.
- Zoom In: Each participant receives one image from a larger visual sequence, but no one can see anyone else’s picture. Teams must communicate clearly, listen carefully, and piece together the “big picture” using only verbal descriptions and collaboration. This activity creates powerful insights around communication gaps, assumptions, and organizational clarity.
- The Maze: Using only their memory, observation skills, and support from teammates, participants attempt to navigate an invisible maze hidden within the room. What initially feels like a simple challenge quickly becomes an eye-opening lesson in leadership, trust, emotional reactions, adaptability, and team support under pressure.
Closing Debrief & Wrap-up Activity (5-15 minutes) The group comes together to reflect on key insights, celebrate successes, and identify practical ways to apply the lessons back at work. We conclude with a meaningful closing activity and a team picture to capture the experience.
