If you’re planning a team building activity for your company, you’ve probably read about escape rooms. They’re more approachable than “rage rooms,” more fun than painting classes, and indoors, so they aren’t dependent on the weather.
But do they actually work as a team building event, and most importantly, are they appropriate for a work environment? The last thing you want to do in 2025 is open yourself up to liability in any way, shape or form.
This blog will discuss escape rooms, how to make your activity a success, and how to make sure it’s appropriate for all of your team members.
Are Escape Rooms Appropriate For Work Activities?
Yes, escape rooms are a fantastic option for workplace team-building activities. These experiences challenge participants to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and collaborate under pressure, all of which mirror the skills necessary for a successful work environment. Escape rooms promote critical thinking, communication, and teamwork, making them an ideal choice for organizations looking to foster a more connected and efficient team.
With a variety of themes and difficulty levels available, escape rooms cater to groups of all sizes and interests, and they provide an experience that is both entertaining and beneficial to workplace dynamics. Even better, it’s incredibly easy to plan an escape room activity for your workforce.
Gone are the Days of Alcohol-Fueled Work Activities
In the past, workplace gatherings often revolved around alcohol-centric activities like happy hours or office parties. While these events had their place, they didn’t always create opportunities for genuine connection or personal growth. Escape rooms offer an alternative that is inclusive and engaging for everyone, regardless of personal preferences or comfort levels around alcohol.
These activities focus on mental challenges and problem-solving, allowing colleagues to interact in meaningful ways that don’t rely on social lubrication. Escape rooms give every participant the chance to shine, whether through logical reasoning, keen observation, or creative thinking. This collaborative approach fosters a more inclusive environment, making it easier for employees to build rapport and respect for one another.
Active Events Foster Real Work Conversations Between Colleagues
Escape rooms create opportunities for organic, productive conversations among coworkers. Unlike passive activities where participants may gravitate toward familiar faces, escape rooms require active participation and collaboration. This structure encourages employees to engage with colleagues they might not interact with regularly.
The problem-solving aspect of escape rooms mirrors challenges faced in the workplace, making it easier for participants to relate the experience to their day-to-day roles. For example, when a team works together to crack a difficult code or unlock a hidden compartment, they practice the same skills they need to tackle workplace projects. These shared victories translate into stronger working relationships and improved communication back at the office.
Connections Between Coworkers Lead to Retention
Team-building activities like escape rooms can significantly impact employee retention. When employees feel connected to their colleagues, they are more likely to stay with a company. Escape rooms offer an enjoyable way to deepen these connections, helping coworkers build trust and camaraderie in a low-pressure setting.
Strong workplace relationships lead to higher job satisfaction, as employees are more likely to feel supported and valued by their peers. These connections also make it easier to navigate challenges or conflicts at work, as teams that trust each other are more adept at resolving differences. By investing in activities that foster these bonds, employers can reduce turnover and create a more cohesive team.
Prepare Your Team For the Event
To maximize the benefits of an escape room experience, it’s essential to prepare your team ahead of time. Clear communication and thoughtful planning can make the difference between a good event and an exceptional one.
Give Everyone Plenty of Notice to Dress Comfortably For an Escape Room
Escape rooms often require movement, crouching, or searching in unusual spaces. Encourage your team to dress in comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy shoes. Sending out a reminder well in advance helps ensure that everyone feels physically prepared for the activity, which reduces unnecessary distractions. Also, keep in mind that escape rooms have different levels, and cameras throughout the space.
Choose an Escape Room That Avoids Overly Mature Content
When selecting an escape room, consider the preferences and comfort levels of your team. Many escape rooms offer themes ranging from lighthearted adventures to more intense scenarios. While mature or horror-themed rooms might appeal to certain groups, they aren’t always suitable for a professional setting.
Opt for a neutral or universally appealing theme, such as a mystery, treasure hunt, or spy mission. This ensures that every participant can fully enjoy the experience without feeling uneasy. If you’re unsure about the content of a particular room, reach out to the venue for more details. Most escape room providers are happy to recommend options tailored to workplace events.
Plan an Outdoor Picnic or Beer Garden Hang Afterwards
Extend the positive energy of the escape room by planning a casual gathering afterward. An outdoor picnic or a visit to a local beer garden provides the perfect opportunity for employees to relax and reflect on the experience. These follow-up activities give team members a chance to celebrate their success, share laughs about memorable moments, and continue building relationships in a more informal setting.
Choosing a post-event venue with a relaxed atmosphere helps maintain the momentum of the team-building activity. Whether your team wants to enjoy snacks in a nearby park or toast their victory at a trendy beer garden, this added touch reinforces the connections made during the escape room and leaves a lasting impression.
Plan Your Escape Room Work Event, and Have Fun
Escape rooms are not only appropriate for workplace activities but also an excellent choice for fostering teamwork, communication, and connection. By engaging in these interactive challenges, employees build skills that translate directly to the workplace while forming stronger relationships with their colleagues. Thoughtful preparation and post-event activities enhance the experience, ensuring that your team leaves feeling motivated and united.
For Los Angeles-based teams looking for a unique and impactful team-building activity, escape rooms offer the perfect blend of fun and function. Start planning your next workplace adventure today!