Managing Remote Teams? Master The Art of Team Building

Introduction

Remote work has become a standard practice. Managers now face the challenge of building cohesive teams without face-to-face interactions. Enter team-building exercises tailored for remote teams. These activities can unite your team, boosting morale and productivity. Ready to turn your scattered team into a cohesive unit? Let’s explore team-building exercises that will have your remote team clicking better than a high-speed internet connection.

Why Team Building Matters

First, why bother with team building for remote teams? A strong team culture boosts morale, enhances communication, and fosters collaboration. It leads to higher productivity and reduces feelings of isolation that come with remote work. In simple terms, a happier team is a more productive team.

The Fundamentals of Successful Remote Team Building

Communication is Key

In an office, you might chat over coffee. Remote settings need more effort. Have regular check-ins. Use video calls to keep the human touch alive.

Inclusivity

Ensure every team member feels involved. Use activities that accommodate different time zones and job functions.

Consistency

One-off activities are fun, but consistency is key. Schedule regular team-building activities to maintain connection.

Top Team Building Exercises for Remote Teams

Virtual Coffee Chats

What’s the Idea?

Pair team members for casual 15-minute coffee breaks. This fosters interpersonal communication and can lead to unforeseen collaborations.

How to Do It

Use pairing tools like Donut on Slack. Schedule these chats during working hours, but outside critical meetings. Encourage participants to learn something new about each other.

Example

One remote team at a tech company used Donut to pair team members randomly. They shared personal stories and interests. Over time, this led to stronger bonds and better collaboration in work projects.

Online Escape Rooms

What’s the Idea?

Engage your team in a fun, problem-solving activity that requires teamwork and collaboration.

How to Do It

Host the challenge through platforms like Escape Rooms or Enchambered. Divide the team into smaller groups to ensure everyone participates. Debrief after the activity to highlight problem-solving skills and team collaboration.

Example

An e-commerce company used an online escape room for team-building. Teams solved puzzles together. Afterward, they discussed strategies that worked and those that didn’t. This activity improved their problem-solving approach in work tasks.

Virtual Talent Show

What’s the Idea?

Everyone has hidden talents. This fun activity will let your team showcase their skills and learn more about each other.

How to Do It

Organize a talent show over Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Set some guidelines and encourage creativity. Applaud all participants to foster a positive atmosphere.

Example

A marketing team hosted a virtual talent show. Employees did everything from singing to painting. The event revealed unknown talents and fostered a sense of appreciation and camaraderie among team members.

Trivia Quizzes

What’s the Idea?

Trivia quizzes can be both relaxing and stimulating. They also induce a healthy dose of competition.

How to Do It

Use quiz platforms like Kahoot or Quizizz. Have themed quizzes to keep things exciting. Offer small prizes to encourage participation.

Example

An insurance company held weekly trivia quizzes. Each week had a different theme, ranging from pop culture to company history. The quizzes not only educated but also entertained the team, making them look forward to the next quiz.

Virtual Book Club

What’s the Idea?

Promote reading and intellectual discussion with a book club.

How to Do It

Select a book and set a reading deadline. Use platforms like Goodreads for discussions. Host monthly meetings to discuss key takeaways and personal insights.

Example

A financial services firm started a virtual book club. The members chose a mix of business and fiction books. Monthly discussions allowed employees to express their thoughts and build a deeper intellectual connection with teammates.

Other Ideas to Explore

Virtual Movie Night

Bring your team together for a virtual movie night. Choose a movie that everyone will enjoy. Use platforms like Netflix Party to watch together. Open a chat for live reactions and comments.

Online Workshops

Provide your team with personal and professional growth opportunities through online workshops. Identify areas where your team would benefit from additional training. Use platforms like Coursera or Udemy. Schedule a time for the team to attend and share their learnings.

Remote Yoga or Workout Sessions

Promote physical health and well-being with virtual exercise sessions. Hire a virtual fitness instructor. Schedule sessions at convenient times. Encourage consistent participation for best results.

Conclusion

By investing in remote team-building exercises, you ensure that your team becomes more cohesive and productive. The activities outlined above cater to different preferences and can be adapted to suit your team’s needs. Remember, a happy and engaged team is a successful team.

With these strategies, your team will not only perform better but will also enjoy the work they do. Start today, and take the first step towards a more connected and efficient remote team.

Sources

Dyer, W. G. (2007). Team Building: Proven Strategies for Improving Team Performance. Hackman, J. R. (2002). Leading Teams: Setting the Stage for Great Performances. Salas, E., Burke, C. S., & Cannon-Bowers, J. A. (2000). Teamwork: Emerging principles. Wageman, R., Fisher, M., & Hackman, J. R. (2009). Leading Teams When the Time Slices are Critical.