In today’s fast-paced world of remote work, keeping your team engaged can be quite a challenge. Distractions abound, and without the usual office camaraderie, employees might feel isolated.
If you’re looking to boost morale and create a sense of belonging, incorporating fun games into your routine can make a significant difference.
Here are the 10 best employee engagement games that can help remote teams feel connected and motivated.
1. Virtual Trivia
Why It Works: Trivia games are a fantastic way to stimulate minds and spark friendly competition. They can be tailored to include company-related questions, pop culture, or random facts.
How to Play: Use platforms like Kahoot or Quizizz to host a virtual trivia session. Divide your team into groups and let them compete for prizes or bragging rights. This not only encourages teamwork but also allows employees to learn more about each other.
2. Online Escape Room
Why It Works: Online escape rooms require collaboration and problem-solving, making them ideal for team bonding. They challenge your team to think creatively and communicate effectively.
How to Play: Choose a virtual escape room service and set a time. Teams must work together to solve puzzles and “escape” within a set time limit. It’s a great way to build trust and improve communication skills.
3. Two Truths and a Lie
Why It Works: This classic icebreaker can be a fun way to get to know your colleagues better. It encourages sharing personal stories, which can help build stronger relationships.
How to Play: Each team member shares three statements about themselves—two true and one false. The rest of the team has to guess which one is the lie. This game is simple, requires no special tools, and can lead to hilarious revelations!
4. Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Why It Works: Scavenger hunts encourage movement and creativity. They can help break the monotony of work and prompt employees to engage with their surroundings.
How to Play: Create a list of common household items or fun tasks, like finding a childhood photo or showing a favorite mug. Give everyone a set time to gather the items and share them with the group. This game gets people moving and laughing together.
5. Pictionary
Why It Works: Pictionary is a fun drawing game that sparks creativity and teamwork. It’s a light-hearted way to encourage collaboration.
How to Play: Use an online drawing tool like Skribbl.io or a whiteboard feature in video conferencing apps. Players take turns drawing a word while their teammates guess what it is. This game is sure to create lots of laughs!
6. Virtual Book Club
Why It Works: A book club can provide a shared experience that encourages discussion and connection. It’s an excellent way to stimulate intellectual engagement.
How to Play: Choose a book that everyone will read over a month. Schedule a virtual meeting to discuss the book, share insights, and connect over different perspectives. This not only fosters communication but also enhances critical thinking.
7. Online Cooking Classes
Why It Works: Cooking classes can be a delightful way to bond over shared experiences. They encourage team members to learn something new together.
How to Play: Hire a virtual cooking instructor or choose a recipe that everyone can try at home. Set a time for everyone to cook together and then share the results. This can lead to delicious conversations and shared tips!
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8. Charades
Why It Works: Charades is a classic game that promotes non-verbal communication and creativity. It’s a fantastic way to lighten the mood and get people laughing.
How to Play: Players take turns acting out a word or phrase without speaking, while the rest of the team guesses what it is. Use a charades generator for ideas, or create your own list. This game is simple, engaging, and requires no special equipment.
9. Virtual Coffee Breaks
Why It Works: Sometimes, all it takes to boost morale is a casual chat. Virtual coffee breaks allow employees to connect on a personal level, reducing feelings of isolation.
How to Play: Schedule regular coffee breaks where team members can join a video call to chat about anything but work. Encourage sharing personal stories, hobbies, or even just how their weekend went. This can strengthen team bonds and improve overall morale.
10. Online Fitness Challenges
Why It Works: Promoting health and wellness is essential, especially in remote settings. Fitness challenges can motivate employees to stay active while fostering a sense of community.
How to Play: Set a fitness goal for the month, such as a certain number of steps or workout sessions. Use fitness tracking apps to share progress and celebrate achievements. Consider adding fun incentives, like a prize for the most active participant.
Conclusion
Engaging remote teams doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating these games into your routine, you can build stronger relationships, improve communication, and boost morale. The key is to create an environment where everyone feels included and valued. So, gather your team, pick a game, and watch as the connections strengthen and the fun begins!
Remember, the goal is to create a positive and enjoyable work culture, even from a distance. By addressing the challenges of remote work with creative solutions, you can promote a more engaged and cohesive team. Happy playing!
