70 salespeople and members of leadership from Rimage Corporation in Minneapolis, MN, came together for an evening of fun and learning while experiencing a Build-A-Bike team building event. There were several activities, and a high energy pace that kept the participants moving and creatively coming up with ways to complete the tasks and solve the problems. There was even a time of emphasizing the core values of the company. The end result was a lot of laughter, a sense of camaraderie and 12 bikes being built and given to local children form the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Minneapolis, Minnesota. The children being present at the end of the event to receive the bikes added to the pleasure of the evening.

The representatives at the company were gathered from Europe, the Pacific Rim, Australia, and the US. The international group overcame language and cultural barriers to work together to accomplish tasks, solve problems ands eventually gather the materials assemble the bikes. With the varied cultures represented everyone had fun and also made some discoveries about themselves as well as others.

Often times because we have been engaged in a conversation we think tat communication has taken place. But real communication is predicated on listening and understanding; much more than just conversing. We often say things we understand but the receiver of the words and body language interprets it completely differently than we meant. Both parties are clear to themselves what they are saying, but don’t take the time and energy to make sure they understand what the person really means. There can be a vast difference between what someone says and what they mean; between what they think they said and how it was understood. Carefully listen means restating and clarify what is heard so to ascertain the correct meaning of the communication.

Many times it has been said that we are born with two ears and one mouth meaning that we should listen twice as much as we speak. Good advice, as long as the listening involves making sure we understand, so that we can be sure to be understood. Next time you are involved in an important conversation make sure you listen well, understand completely, and turn your conversation into constructive communication.

Thanks Rimage for a great team building event and for making the difference at work, and in Minneapolis community by enhancing the lives of children.