Here's how you can navigate the potential drawbacks of virtual collaboration in business innovation.

Due to all the virtual meetings, we tend to schedule collaboration meetings too briefly. I find it effective to mirror physical meetings by scheduling 2-hour blocks. The idea is to alternate between collaborating on topics and working alone without a mic or camera, as if working together in the same room but not in continuous dialogue. The advantage is that others cannot claim this time for another meeting because you keep it open. Additionally, you take into account that constant virtual meetings are very exhausting.

Navigating virtual collaboration can feel like playing charades with bad Wi-Fi. But fear not, here are the top three ways to structure your virtual meetings that do more than ask folks to start their cameras: "Theme Thursdays": Why look like zombies when you can dress like one? Pick a fun theme each week. Nothing boosts morale like seeing your boss in a pirate hat. "Mute Button Karaoke": Start meetings with a round where everyone sings their favorite song... on mute. The laughter from guessing the song will energize the team. "Virtual Coffee Roulette": Pair up team members randomly for five-minute coffee chats. It’s like speed dating without the awkwardness of wanting to impress someone.

In the wild world of virtual collaboration, relying on WhatsApp is like using a megaphone to whisper secrets. Here are unique ways to use tracking tools for communication that are as effective as they are entertaining: "Slack-tastic Bingo": Turn task tracking into a game! Create bingo cards with common project milestones. First one to complete a row gets a virtual high-five or an actual snack delivered. "Trello Truth or Dare": Assign tasks with a twist. Completed a task? Great! Now, reveal an office secret or do a silly dare. It keeps everyone on their toes and tasks on track. "Asana Antics": Use Asana to assign not just tasks but funny GIF responses to updates. Who knew project tracking could be a comedy show?

Building rapport in a virtual world can feel like trying to high-five through a screen. Here’s how to bring your team closer from my experience: "Fun Fridays": Host weekly themed events where everyone lets loose, from pyjama parties to talent shows. "Birthday Bashes": Virtual birthdays needn't be boring. Plan surprise Zoom parties with silly hats, e-cards, and cake delivery. Bonus points for terrible karaoke. "Hackathons & Treasure Hunts": Combine brains and adventure. Hackathons for those who love a challenge, and virtual treasure hunts with cryptic clues and goofy prizes. These antics aren’t just for laughs—they build camaraderie and spark the creativity that fuels innovation. Because who says you can't have fun while working apart?

It’s also valuable to establish mentorship programs within virtual teams. Pairing less experienced members with seasoned professionals can foster growth, provide guidance, and strengthen team bonds. These relationships can thrive through regular check-ins and collaborative projects, enriching the virtual collaboration experience.

'Growth & Comfort typically do not co-exist'. Virtual collaboration enables a decentralized approach to innovation. Let's embrace its benefits rather than fixate on its downsides.