For most teams, it’s been just over a year since remote work began. Teams have faced highs and lows as they navigated this new way of working together. Working remotely can lead to emotional isolation and stress. It’s ever so important to keep your team engaged but in a safe way. Socially distanced team building activities will keep your employees engaged, allow an opportunity to check-in with one another, and provide a sense of inclusion.
Ideas for Socially Distanced Team Building
It’s critical to host virtual team building or socially distanced team building activities to keep up morale and productivity. While many employees may feel the effects of loneliness working in an isolated setting, getting together virtually can strengthen relationships among employees. To strengthen those relationships, managers can build in virtual biweekly or weekly one-on-one meetings. Try starting out the meeting with a personal check-in, how are things going with the family or asking what house projects the employee may be working on. It’s also a good time to gauge an employee’s mental well being and provide them with resources (or connect them with HR) if they need assistance.
In addition to one-on-one meetings, set time aside – formal or informal – for the whole team to get together. Promote participation by sending an agenda or talking points before the meeting.
Activities for Your Team
Maintaining social interaction is crucial for a company and can improve productivity and reduce burnout. Spice up your remote meetings by setting aside 10-20 minutes for activities such as:
- Costume contests (holiday, themes, formal Fridays)
- Team building games such as trivia, pictionary, etc. (For more game ideas, click here.)
- Group stretching classes
Society Insurance is Here to Help Your Team Thrive
By implementing tools and activities that keep your employees feeling connected and engaged, your team will be able to navigate through the challenges of remote work. It’s important to not only talk about business but also to set aside time for personal connections. Doing so will allow employees to feel seen and heard!
Check out our HR blog series for more information on how to inspire your team!
