Simon Says (Work Edition)
Time for the team building activity: 8–12 minutes
Setup effort: Very easy (no materials)
Estimated cost: Free
Business value: Sharpens listening accuracy, improves attention to detail, and creates playful focus in team building sessions
What is Simon Says (Work Edition)?
Simon Says (Work Edition) is an adapted version of the classic listening game, redesigned for professional team building environments.
Participants must only follow instructions that begin with:
“Simon says…”
If the facilitator gives a command without saying “Simon says,” anyone who follows it is out for that round.
The workplace edition uses safe, professional prompts and keeps the tone light and fast.
Despite its simplicity, the activity strongly activates active listening and impulse control, two skills that directly translate to better meeting discipline and execution.
How do you run Simon Says (Work Edition)?
Ask participants to stand (or stay seated if space is limited).
Explain the core rule clearly:
Only follow the instruction if it begins with “Simon says.”
Demonstrate one or two practice rounds to ensure understanding.
Then begin the game using simple workplace-safe actions such as:
“Simon says raise your hand.”
“Simon says touch your notebook.”
“Clap once.” (trap command)
“Simon says lean forward.”
Run quick sequences, gradually increasing speed.
If someone makes a mistake, you can either:
have them sit out briefly (competitive mode)
or simply reset the group (inclusive mode)
The full team building activity typically runs 8–12 minutes.
Why it’s great for a team
Many team building activities energize the room but do not meaningfully train attention.
Simon Says works particularly well because it forces participants to listen precisely under mild pressure.
In just a few minutes, it helps teams:
sharpen active listening
reduce automatic reactions
increase present-moment focus
create shared laughter
re-energize attention quickly
It is especially effective:
early in workshops
after lunch dips
before detailed work sessions
in training environments
From a workplace perspective, teams that strengthen listening discipline often experience fewer misunderstandings and execution errors.
How to organize it effectively
Facilitator pacing and clarity are the biggest success factors.
Start with slower, easy rounds to build confidence.
Then gradually increase speed to create challenge and energy.
Keep commands:
simple
visible
workplace appropriate
Avoid overly complex physical movements.
Choose your tone intentionally:
Inclusive mode (recommended for most teams): mistakes are light and the group resets together
Competitive mode (for high-energy groups): players who miss sit out briefly
For large groups, position yourself where everyone can clearly see and hear you.
In remote team building sessions:
keep cameras on if possible
use clear verbal pacing
account for slight audio delay
Use strategically as an energizer rather than a long activity block.
When well facilitated, Simon Says (Work Edition) is a deceptively powerful team building activity that strengthens listening accuracy and group focus while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging.