Rebuilding with Heart: How Team Spirit Revived Our Department

Accounting Team

Rebuilding with Heart: How Team Spirit Revived Our Department
Shared by Shannon Scribner, Controller, Royal American Companies

When I stepped into my role as Controller in March 2024, the accounting department was in a period of transition. Seasoned team members had moved on, and a new group—myself included—was just beginning to find its footing. Morale was low and we needed to rebuild trust. Team Building became our key strategy. Research shows that team-building boosts communication, trust, and collaboration. We took team building beyond theory–it became our blueprint. We committed to creating small moments of connection that would eventually grow into something much bigger.

Today, the change is visible and felt. Since starting our team building initiatives, we’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation. Wins—both personal and professional—are shared with pride. Colleagues are lifting one another up, checking in, and showing up in ways that go beyond the job description. We even turned our shared cubicle area into a celebration wall, filled with photos celebrating personal and professional milestones, boosting appreciation and belonging. The best part? The camaraderie is real and each team member is driving the momentum. They’re suggesting new ideas, cheering each other on, and taking ownership of our culture. These shifts reflect real improvements in communication, trust and collaboration.

What’s next for the Accounting Team? Building on the momentum of “competitive socializing” we’re planning a throwback kickball game and we’ve scheduled a bowling night in August. We’re even planning a painting party and we have tickets to the new Pirate Show in Panama City Beach. We’ve also supported one of our GL Technicians by attending her local theater performance—and we’re already looking forward to the next show. These moments aren’t just outings—they’re milestones showing how far we’ve come together. By investing in your team’s well-being, practicing open communication, and celebrating one another, the benefits extend far beyond the occasional outing; you can redefine how your team collaborates and thrives together.

If you’re looking to build stronger connections, here’s our TEAM BUILDING FORMULA. I hope it inspires you:

Start with morale. Rebuilding trust takes time—six months or more. Be patient and consistent.
Be transparent. Host regular check-ins, share clear expectations, and lead with fairness.
Listen and act. Your team’s voice is your greatest asset. Hear them—and make changes that matter.
Celebrate wins—big and small. Recognition fuels momentum and reminds people that their work matters.
Create psychological safety. When people feel safe and respected, they’re more likely to contribute, collaborate, and shine.

At Royal American, we encourage team building that brings people together through shared interests, experiences, or goals. If your team has found a creative way to bond or boost morale, we’d love to hear about it!