It is no secret that employee engagement represents one of the most important factors when discussing any successful Indian business. Unfortunately, many organisations are failing to address this seemingly basic requirement. Recent statistics have indicated that up to 77 per cent of workers have begun to feel disengaged from their everyday duties.
While there are many potential culprits behind this rather disturbing trend, one factor involves team cohesion. If individual members are unable to “click” with one another on an interpersonal level, results will obviously suffer. The good news is that management can address these concerns in a number of ways. One interesting tactic involves the use of virtual gaming to encourage team bonding. What is the psychology behind this approach? What advantages might it be able to offer? Are there any possible concerns to address? We will be thoroughly examining each of these questions.
The Organic Side of Virtual Sports
It may initially seem that there is hardly a relationship between online sports activities such as MMORPGs, fantasy leagues, and wagering. This is why it is important to peel back the layers to understand the role of human psychology.
It is a well-known fact that engaging in any multiplayer competition involving different teams requires a significant amount of collaboration. Consider platforms such as Call of Duty or Counter-Strike. Both of these franchises are based around the concept of strategic communication to achieve specific goals. Players who regularly engage in these activities are more likely to adopt an assertive attitude when dealing with challenges, and to share unique responsibilities within group settings.
These observations can also be translated into other sectors, such as modern sports betting. Wagering enthusiasts are now presented with a massive amount of information that must be interpreted when predicting an outcome. This can sometimes be challenging for a single person. So, a group approach may be warranted. Here is a quick example of how specific duties can be assigned to each member:
- One can analyse previous results.
- Another will examine the latest odds and fixtures.
- A third may review social media posts related to the upcoming event.
- The final member could have the responsibility of placing a wager at a certain time.
By delegating these actions in such a manner, it is more likely that informed decisions will be made.
Finally, the concept of “all-for-one” comes into play when discussing any type of e-sport (such as a fantasy league). As the expression goes, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Members who appreciate their importance will perform at peak levels. They will also be congratulated when the desired results are achieved. This represents a powerful form of positive reinforcement; helping to ensure that efficient performance becomes a habit over time.
How Does This Apply to the Indian Workplace?
To be clear, many of the statements outlined above may appear to be nothing more than common sense. It is still a fact that certain regions of the world have already begun to implement virtual gaming as a form of team bonding. India is a prime example.
A recent Gallup study found that a mere 14 per cent of Indian employees feel actively engaged within the workplace. Furthermore, 86 per cent reported that they are struggling to perform within a team environment. There are many potential reasons behind these statistics. The marginalisation of specific working classes, a steep level of competition, and managers that fail to proactively communicate with their subordinates are three prime examples. This is why innovative approaches have begun to emerge.
It just so happens that fantasy sports leagues have become extremely popular throughout India. Some analysts predict that the total number of engaged players might reach as high as half a billion by 2027. This is why companies are taking advantage of these activities as an innovative way to address team building. We will now break down why such approaches can be highly effective.
Boosting Creativity
Many virtual sports associated with team competitions will require participants to solve complex problems. Members need to be able to think outside the proverbial box when presented with daunting tasks. Overcoming these pitfalls will likewise boost one’s confidence; increasing the chances that he or she adopts a proactive mindset in the future.
Accessibility
Indians now have access to a host of internationally recognised bookmakers such as Sportsbet thanks to the presence of high-speed Internet connectivity. Registration takes a matter of seconds, and a wide range of sports are available. Multiple members can observe the latest odds, place bets, and monitor the real-time results. Offices may even create wagering pools so that all employees are involved; a potent team-building technique.
Assertive as Opposed to Aggressive
Every team is comprised of different personalities. There will inevitably be instances when these personalities clash. Virtual sports can help to teach individuals about the importance of assertiveness when communicating with others. This skill will then translate into the workplace; offering a means to effectively express one’s feelings in a constructive manner. This is yet another core trait of a highly functional team.
A Level Playing Field
Fantasy leagues, and a variety of e-sports will often offer a unique sense of “democratisation”. After all, titles such as Team Supervisor, or Lead Sales Representative hardly transfer into the digital domain. Doing away with these monikers is an excellent way to tap into the human side of any professional relationship.
Putting it All Together
The only potential downside to this type of team building can occur if virtual sports begin to negatively impact everyday workplace responsibilities. This is why it is the responsibility of management to ensure that such tools do not become distractions. However, countless Indian businesses have already accepted the benefits outlined above. Those who are interested to learn more about the connection between e-sports, and team cohesion are encouraged to perform additional research. Plenty of information is available.