Building bonds in remote work settings

If your business spends some or all days working remotely, fostering team connections is vital. This article dives into a collection of entertaining virtual team-building games, that not only nurture friendship but also amplify communication, collaboration, and overall team dynamism

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on When I Work

Games are more than just a pastime—they serve a crucial purpose in remote work and introducing them has numerous benefits. It boosts morale, promotes collaboration, increases productivity, fosters innovation, builds a positive workplace culture, and strengthens relationships among remote employees. These activities contribute to a vibrant and connected remote team, enhancing overall work satisfaction and performance.

Give any of these top 10 remote games a try to foster better connections within your remote team. Feel free to use them as simple icebreakers or spice them up with prizes (online gift cards, food delivery, etc.) to generate excitement.

• Parade of homes: Have each person give a virtual tour through their living spaces. A modern twist to the classic “show and tell,” this activity offers glimpses into your team’s personalities and lives, fostering a sense of connection.
• Show and tell: Echoes from the school days, “show and tell” remains a charming way to share passions. Let team members take turns showcasing personal interests, hobbies, or beloved pets.
• Thinking out of the box: Break the ice in virtual meetings with riddles or lateral-thinking questions. A playful start ensures a lively session, stimulating teamwork and sparking creative discussions. Remember, the focus is on enjoyment, not on proving intellect.
• Scavenger hunt: Craft a virtual scavenger hunt tailored to your team’s remote locations. It’s a delightful way to encourage teamwork, and the thrill of discovery adds an element of excitement.
• Quiz meet: Kick off your virtual meetings with a quiz, either using dedicated apps or a simple setup. Dividing into small teams within the larger group fosters healthy competition and sets an upbeat tone for the session.
• Where in the world? Celebrate geographical diversity within your team. Share cropped images of landmarks from team members’ regions and let the guessing game begin. This not only adds a fun dimension but also promotes cross-cultural understanding.
• Team collage: Construct a weekly collage from snapshots shared by team members. Each photo tells a unique story, creating a shared visual tapestry. Dedicated channels in communication tools can host discussions around these snapshots.
• Charades: Put a virtual twist on charades using online drawing tools. Platforms like Skribbl provide a private space for your team to engage in a lively guessing game.
• Two truths and a lie: A classic for remote teams. Team members take turns sharing two truths and one lie about themselves, prompting others to guess the falsehood. An ideal icebreaker for both new and existing team members.
• Team novel: Compose a collaborative story as a team, with each member contributing a section. Whether verbal or written, this activity encourages creativity and unity. Establish ground rules to maintain a positive and inclusive narrative.

In the realm of remote work, where physical distances can translate to emotional distances, fun virtual games emerge as powerful tools. Beyond the joy they bring, these games amplify team morale, foster collaboration, stimulate innovation, and build a robust workplace culture. As your team navigates the digital landscape, remember, a connected team is a resilient team.