Overview: This activity is a great standalone exercise for a small organization, department, or team. It can also serve as a follow-up or partner exercise to the previously highlighted activity “A Day in the Life of Bob”. Participants are given the opportunity to step into a colleague’s shoes for two hours, a half-day, or an entire day by either shadowing (or working independently in) that colleague’s role. Colleague’s often do not fully understand nor appreciate the work of one another until they have a clear understanding of their daily efforts. This eye-opening exercise will give your team clarity and a heightened appreciation for one another’s contributions.
Equipment Required: None.
Space Required: Standard daily working environment.
Group Size: 4 to 100 people.
Total Time: 1 Day – 1 Week.
Instructions:
- Assign each team member another person to shadow or work independently in that colleague’s role. Assign timelines for the shadowing to take place. Everyone should preferably complete their shadowing over a single day (or week). The shorter the time-period, the more effective the exercise will be. Brief the team on the activity and let them know they will be shadowing or working independently in a colleague’s role for a brief period. Encourage them to take notes and reflect on their experience. Determine a debrief date/time and communicate it to the team.
- Debrief the activity. If the group is small enough, give each team member the opportunity to share their experience with the rest of the group.
Learning Outcomes
- Collaboration
- Team Morale & Appreciation
- Communication
- Listening Skills
- Cooperation
Suggested Review Questions
- What did you learn from this activity?
- What did you enjoy most about this activity?
- What is one thing that surprised you about your team member’s role?
- Did the activity make you see your colleagues in a new light? If so, how?
- Do you appreciate your colleagues more after learning more about their roles/responsibilities? Do you have any examples?
- What is one thing that you can take away from this activity?
