Teams that laugh together succeed together!
Michael Wader
Dynamic Conference Keynote Speaker, President/Founder of Leadership Excellence International, Lean Sensei, Lean Sigma BB, Virtual Speakers Association International and Malaysian Association of Professional Speakers
Provided by Leadership Excellence International
"Sometimes, a little laughter and a few slices of pizza can accomplish more than a dozen strategy meetings. The best leaders know that success isn't just about hitting targets—it's about building a team that feels connected, appreciated, and energized.
A well-timed joke or a lighthearted moment breaks down barriers, fosters trust, and reminds everyone that we're in this together.
Don't underestimate the magic of a pizza party—gathering the team around a table, sharing a meal, and swapping stories can turn coworkers into collaborators. I have witnessed the power of a good pizza party. You'd be amazed what happens when you toss some pizzas on the conference table: conversations flow, relationships strengthen, and suddenly, you're not just colleagues—you're a team.
What types of activities have you experienced that added unmeasurable value in reducing stress and tension, increasing team bonding, and resulting in a team that performed at a higher level?
When people feel valued and enjoy being part of the team, they'll work harder and think bigger. At the end of the day, people will go the extra mile for leaders who make them feel valued and connected.
I feel all leaders should follow this habit. I know many of you have done similar things to build the strength of your successful teams. What did you do, and why did you do it? Can you share your success story with us? Share your story in the "comments" box to tell us what other successful leaders do to keep enthusiastic and high-performing teams going.
These moments of levity and sharing a pizza remind the team that work doesn't always have to feel like work. As a successful leader, I know – "the team that laughs together succeeds together!"
Follow Michael Wader for more insights into leading successful teams. He teaches leadership and lean technology around the globe and helps individuals and companies become more successful. Contact him directly if you want more information about how he does it!
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2dLearning lunches, where the leader brings one team member out for a meal, can be a good thing as well. Some team members might speak up more when they are in a smaller group, or a more 1:1 setting.
𝙻𝚒𝚗𝚔𝚎𝚍𝙸𝚗 𝚃𝚘𝚙 𝙿𝚛𝚘𝚓𝚎𝚌𝚝 𝙼𝚊𝚗𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚅𝚘𝚒𝚌e | Founder of MyPMGenie | former PMI Malaysia Chapter Board of Director | Leading Project Management & PMO Training and Consulting Firm
2dAbsolutely agree with your perspective, Michael Wader. Building strong, high-performing teams isn't just about strategy sessions and hitting KPIs — it's about creating genuine human connections. I’ve seen firsthand how informal gatherings like pizza parties or team outings break down barriers and foster trust in ways traditional meetings never could. When people feel valued and connected, they’re more likely to collaborate, innovate, and go the extra mile. A leader who understands the power of these moments creates a culture where teams thrive. After all, a team that laughs and bonds together truly succeeds together! Thanks for highlighting this essential aspect of leadership.