Virtual Team Building Games

How to boost comrarderie among teams

The best way to boost morale and collaboration among co-workers is to leave them alone. I know, its the exact opposite of what the weird HR consultant told you. But organic relationships form only when they are not forced.

As business owners, we need to provide safe spaces for discussion and expression if we want people to get along. People will not become best friends and master collaborators if they are forced to be in contact with each other. Mandatory scavenger hunts, escape rooms or other odd gatherings actually drive people apart much more than they bring them together.

Instead of forcing people to get together, allocate time for employees that want to interact with one another to do so. Be sure that this time for socialization is during work hours. Remember, team building is for the benefit of the organization, not the individual, therefore it should be done during business hours.

Play a company themed game of Jeopardy!

This is not only great for team building but it can also help employees perform better on the job. To increase participation a decent prize like a gift card or extra PTO should be offered. Lunch with the CEO or a manager is a punishment for many people (myself included) so try not to offer it as a prize.

Anonymous two truths and a lie

Two truths and a lie is a popular ice breaker sytle games that lets co-workers get to know each other a little better. A nice spin on this game is to have all participants submit their truths/lies anonymously. Team members can then take turns guessing which truths and lies belong to which employee.

Online Uno

Uno is a classic! To make the game a bit more fun, you can give the winner a 'take a half-day without using PTO' gift card.

Digital Scavengar Hunt

Admittedly, I've never participated in a scavenger with adults that were actually enjoyable but a digital one might be ok. Here are the rule if you want to try it out.

Rules
Try to locate images of certain items
You cannot use Google Images to find these items
You may only use up to 2 search attempts and your query cannot be longer than 4 words

Play Fortnite!

Fortnite is an extremely popular game that allows players to team up and take on other teams from across the globe. Co-workers will need to work together and get creative to win battles. This will undoubtedly boost morale among the gamers in the group.

The team can play online using the company computers. The IT department might need to open up a few ports on the firewall to allow the game to run smoothly.

Build a game on Roblox

Roblox is free to play gaming platform that allows users to create their own games for free. There is a little bit of coding involved which could be great for the engineering department. Creating something fun together helps build relationships and hone valuable skills employees can use on the job.

PG Rated Never Have I Ever

The game "Never Have I Ever" allows participants to get to know one another by posing a series of scenarios and having others respond as to whether or not have ever done it. PLEASE get this safe for Disney Channel or better yet, Disney Junior. Things can get awkward if you get too personal with your questions.

Host a painting competition

Painting can be relaxing, fun, and helpful in reducing stress. Send the remote team an easel and some paint brushes along with the item your painting. It's an easy, inexpensive way to connect with everyone while allowing people to show off their creative sides.

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