What is the term for an unplanned meeting with an employee that serves as a tool for relationship building?

The term for an unplanned meeting with an employee that serves as a tool for relationship building is an "impromptu encounter." This type of meeting is characterized by its spontaneous nature, allowing for more casual and genuine interactions. Such encounters can help in fostering rapport and trust between management and employees, as they are usually less formal and more open than scheduled meetings. They create opportunities for authentic conversations, where employees may feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts or concerns.

In contrast, scheduled interviews and formal meetings typically imply structured settings with specific agendas, which may not promote the same level of open communication. Team-building exercises are planned events aimed at improving teamwork and collaboration, but they do not fit the definition of an unplanned interaction meant specifically for relationship-building.