CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal July/August 2025 | Page 25

JACKSON THORNTON:
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ENSURE EVERYONE HAS A VOICE
All team members, regardless of tenure, are encouraged to share ideas and learn from one another. Welcoming diverse perspectives strengthens collaboration and promotes a culture of inclusion.
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PROVIDE MENTORSHIP AND PEER SUPPORT
Programs like“ Young Professionals” groups and“ Allies” initiatives offer guidance, networking and support across all career stages. These connections help team members grow personally and professionally.
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CREATE A CULTURE OF OPENNESS AND CARE
A true open-door policy builds trust and approachability at all levels. When people feel heard and supported— especially during challenges— it creates a stronger, more unified workplace.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY AT MONTGOMERY:
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CELEBRATE UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES, BACKGROUNDS AND EXPERIENCES
Fostering an inclusive environment where differences are embraced leads to stronger collaboration, greater creativity and a sense of belonging across the team. This mindset builds a culture of mutual respect and continuous growth.
DAS NORTH AMERICA:
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ORGANIZE AND PRIORITIZE IN-PERSON TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITIES
Regular in-person activities help build trust and improve collaboration. Encouraging a culture of feedback and support alongside these efforts leads to stronger team cohesion, higher morale and a more innovative, productive work environment.
POARCH CREEK INDIANS:
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PROMOTE FAIRNESS AND INCLUSION
Emphasizing fairness and inclusion promotes employee development and collaboration across departments. These practices strengthen retention, boost morale and build a values-driven environment.
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES
Here are five effective hybrid or in-office team-building activities that promote collaboration, communication and morale without feeling forced:
1. OFFICE TRIVIA Create trivia questions about team members, company history or shared experiences. Use tools like Kahoot! or QuizBreaker. Why it works: Helps team members learn fun facts about each other and the company.
2. LUNCH AND LEARN Team members take turns presenting on a topic— personal or professional— over lunch. Why it works: Promotes knowledge sharing and builds appreciation for different roles or interests.
3. VOLUNTEER AS A TEAM Partner with a local charity or community group and spend a few hours volunteering together. Why it works: Fosters a sense of purpose and connection beyond the workplace.
4. COFFEE ROULETTE Randomly pair team members for short 15-minute virtual or inperson coffee chats each week. Why it works: Encourages cross-team bonding.
5. HYBRID INNOVATION DAY Mixed teams of remote and in-person participants work together to solve a challenge or prototype a new idea. Why it works: Inspires creativity and cross-functional collaboration with a shared goal.
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