Building Strong Connections from Afar: Creative and Engaging Virtual Team-Building Ideas

When you and your colleagues work under the same roof, creating a sense of trust and camaraderie comes more naturally. Spending 40+ hours a week with the same people tends to bring everyone closer together.

But here’s a surprising fact: 65% of virtual employees surveyed reported that they’ve never participated in a team-building session.

So, how can you foster team spirit when your team works remotely and rarely – or never – sees each other in person?

The solution lies in thinking creatively and exploring different approaches to team building. The good news is that virtual team building doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

What is Virtual Team Building?

Virtual team building involves cultivating culture and relationships in a digital environment. Unlike in a physical office where you can connect over coffee breaks or casual chats, remote work requires leveraging technology in innovative ways to form genuine connections.

While standard practices like regular video calls and consistent communication are essential, they can sometimes feel a bit routine. And let’s face it – your team deserves more than the ordinary.

That’s why we’ve compiled some unique and engaging virtual team-building activities to strengthen bonds, even if your colleagues are miles – or oceans – apart.

Creative Remote Team Building Ideas

• MTV Cribs: Virtual Team Edition: Start a fun video series where team members give quick tours of their homes, inspired by the classic MTV Cribs. It offers a glimpse into each other’s personal spaces and adds a playful element to the workday. Extra points for hilarious or unexpected moments!
• Reply All Icebreaker: Though typically an email nightmare, “reply all” can be reimagined for good. Send out an icebreaker question to the entire team and encourage everyone to respond to all. It’s a lighthearted way for colleagues to learn more about each other.
• Private Facebook Group: Think of it as a digital space for sharing photos, life updates, and fun moments. This simple yet effective platform can enhance team culture with minimal effort. From dog pictures to vacation highlights, people love sharing these glimpses of their lives.
• Video In-Person Events: Keep your virtual team in the loop with videos of company events. These don’t have to be professionally done; even simple, authentic clips can make team members feel more connected to the company’s mission and impact.
• Live Virtual Coworking: Set up an open video call, like a virtual coworking space, where team members can join and work alongside each other. It’s a great way to turn mundane tasks into shared experiences while fostering a sense of togetherness.
• Mixer Calls: Emulate the organic connections formed in a traditional office by arranging random, non-work chats between team members. Use tools like the Donut Slack extension to match employees for 15-30 minute catch-up calls. These “blind date” style meetings are a fun way to connect across departments.
• Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt with silly or challenging tasks for your team to complete, either on your own or using platforms like GooseChase. Participants can share photos and stories, making it a memorable bonding experience.

While remote work means missing out on in-person interactions, these creative activities can help bridge the gap. By investing in virtual team-building efforts, you’ll see benefits like increased retention, improved morale, and stronger team cohesion.

What are your favorite ways to build team culture? Share with us in the comments!