Are you looking to enhance your team’s communication, collaboration, and overall productivity? Fret not! We have compiled a list of 20 quick team building activities that cater to remote teams, designed to help build connections and improve communication. Get ready to dive into an exciting world of team-building activities that will not only unite your team but also contribute to a positive company culture.
Whether your team is scattered across the globe or working from home, these activities have been tailored to suit remote teams. In a world where remote work has become the norm, team building has never been more essential. So, buckle up and join us on this thrilling journey through speedy icebreakers, virtual meetings, energizing challenges, creative collaborations, brain-boosting trivia, trust-building exercises, and milestone celebrations!
Key Takeaways
- Experience fast and fun team building activities to foster collaboration, communication, creativity & trust!
- Celebrate accomplishments with shoutouts & milestone celebrations for an encouraging work environment.
- Connect on a personal level through speedy icebreakers, brain boosting quizzes & more!
1. Speedy Icebreakers for Remote Teams
Remote teams often face challenges when it comes to fostering strong connections and collaboration. That’s where quick team building activities come in, providing an opportunity to engage and bond with other team members in a fun and interactive way. These icebreakers are designed to suit virtual teams, using video conferencing software like Microsoft Teams to bring everyone together and promote teamwork.
From getting engaged employees get to know each other through games like Two Truths and a Lie to engaging in lighthearted conversations during virtual coffee breaks, these speedy icebreakers offer a valuable opportunity to build your team’s communication skills, boost morale, and create meaningful relationships within the team.
Let’s explore a selection of exciting and easy-to-implement icebreakers for remote teams!
Two Truths and a Lie
Two Truths and a Lie is an all-time favorite icebreaker game that never fails to bring laughter and excitement. Here’s how to play:
- Each team member shares two true statements and one false statement about themselves.
- The others in the group have to guess which statement is the lie.
- The person with the most correct answers wins.
- Everyone gets to know each other better!
This simple yet engaging game requires no special tools or resources, making it a perfect choice for remote teams. It’s a fantastic way to break the ice, help team members gain insight into each other’s lives and experiences, and foster camaraderie within the virtual team itself.
The One-Word Game
Another fun quick team building activity is The One-Word Game, one of the many engaging team building games. In this quick game, team members describe a given topic using only one word, challenging their creative thinking and quick wit. For instance, participants can guess a movie title from a single word or create a story one word at a time to make it even more exciting.
The One-Word Game can be played in a team collaboration space, either in-person or virtually, encouraging creativity and teamwork. It’s a fun exercise that promotes out-of-the-box thinking and keeps the whole team engaged, making it an excellent addition to your list of icebreakers.
Virtual Coffee Break
Virtual Coffee Breaks are:
- Short, informal video calls
- Team members can socialize and bond over non-work-related topics
- Provide a mental breather
- Chance for team members to connect on a personal level
- Strengthen relationships
- Promote a positive work environment
Scheduled Virtual Coffee Breaks can be conducted using video conferencing software like Microsoft Teams, allowing team members to engage in fun activities like chatting, socializing, or discussing non-work-related topics. It’s a great way to keep remote teams connected, boost overall morale, and maintain a strong company culture.
Energizing Team Member Challenges
With the ice broken, we now move onto some fun team building activities that will put your team’s problem-solving and collaboration skills under the microscope! These exciting challenges promote teamwork, critical thinking, and a healthy competitive spirit. From constructing towering paper structures with just a few sheets to navigating a blindfolded obstacle course, these easy team building activities are sure to get your team’s creative juices flowing.
Engaging in team challenges is not only a fun way to bond but also an opportunity to improve company culture and boost team morale. The thrill of competition and the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles together will bring your team closer, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation.
Paper Tower Contest
The Paper Tower Contest is a creative and competitive team-building activity where teams are tasked to build the tallest tower using only paper and tape. This engineering challenge tests the team’s communication skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, making it a great team-building exercise.
The objective of the game is to construct the highest tower within a time limit, with next person on the winning team earning bragging rights and a prize. The Paper Tower Contest is a fun way to promote continuous improvement and collaboration within the team, making it an excellent choice for your next team-building activity.
Scavenger Hunt
The Scavenger Hunt is a classic team-building activity that can be easily adapted for remote teams. Participants search for items within their homes or workspaces based on a list or clues provided. The team that completes the tasks or finds the most items within the given time limit wins!
Examples of Scavenger Hunt tasks can include finding a specific item in the house, taking a picture of a certain random object somewhere, or completing a task such as making a paper airplane. This thrilling activity not only promotes problem-solving and creative thinking but also provides an opportunity for team members to showcase their unique skills and talents.
Human Knot
The Human Knot is a physical team-building activity that encourages communication and cooperation. Here’s how it works:
- Team members form a circle.
- Each person grabs the hands of two opposite participants.
- The team then works together to untangle themselves without letting go.
- The goal is to untangle the “knot” and form a complete circle once again.
This activity promotes trust and collaboration among team members, helping them understand each other’s perspectives and working styles. As they navigate the challenges of untangling the knot, the team’s communication skills are put to the test, fostering understanding and empathy within the group.
Creative Collaborations
Next on our bucket list, are creative collaboration activities that inspire teamwork, innovation, and unconventional thinking. These activities challenge team members to come together, share ideas, and create something extraordinary. From Pictionary Relay to Storytelling Circle, these activities are designed to spark creativity and collaboration within the team.
Engaging in creative collaborations not only enhances team communication and problem-solving skills but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and support. These activities are a fantastic way to bring out the best in your team while promoting a positive and collaborative work environment.
Pictionary Relay
Pictionary Relay is a fast-paced drawing game where teams race to guess words or phrases based on their teammates’ drawings. One team member draws a given word, while the rest of the team tries to guess the same word, within a time limit. The team with the most correct answers wins!
This fun team-building activity tests communication skills and encourages creative thinking. It’s an excellent way to bring out the artistic side of your team members while promoting collaboration and friendly competition. Pictionary Relay is a great addition to your creative collaboration activities arsenal.
Storytelling Circle
The Storytelling Circle is a collaborative activity where team members take turns adding to a story, one sentence at a time. This exciting exercise not only promotes:
- Creativity
- Active listening
- Thinking on their feet
- Adapting to unexpected twists in the story
By engaging in the Storytelling Circle, team members learn to appreciate each other’s unique perspectives and ideas, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. This activity is perfect for small teams, enhancing team communication and collaboration while providing a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
DIY Craft Challenge
The DIY Craft Challenge is a fantastic way to spark innovation and collaboration within your team. In this activity, team members are given 30 minutes to create something using only materials found in their homes or workspaces. The challenge can be based on a specific theme or left open-ended for maximum creativity.
This activity encourages team members to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to complete the challenge. It’s an excellent way to promote collaboration and communication, as team members pair up and must work together to achieve a common goal.
The DIY Craft Challenge is a fun and engaging activity that will inspire your team’s creative spirit.
Team Building Activity Brain-Boosting Trivia and Quizzes
Everyone enjoys a good trivia or quiz game, don’t they? Brain-Boosting Trivia and Quizzes are a fantastic way to boost your team’s knowledge and critical thinking skills. These activities can be easily adapted for remote teams and are a fun way to engage the entire team in friendly competition.
From Team Trivia Battles to Emoji Quizzes, these trivia and quiz games not only enhance team communication but also promote continuous learning and development. So, gather your team and put your knowledge to the test with these exhilarating trivia and quiz activities!
Team Trivia Battle
Team Trivia Battle is a competitive game where teams answer themed questions to win points and bragging rights. This activity can be easily adapted for remote teams, providing an opportunity for the whole team to test their knowledge and showcase their expertise in various topics.
The thrill of competition and the satisfaction of answering questions correctly make Team Trivia Battle an engaging and enjoyable team-building activity. It’s an excellent way to promote teamwork, boost morale, and foster a sense of camaraderie among team members.
Emoji Quiz
The Emoji Quiz is a creative team-building activity where participants decipher book, song, or movie titles written in emoji form. This game challenges team members to think creatively and analyze visual cues to decode the hidden messages.
Playing the Emoji Quiz has several benefits:
- Enhances team communication and problem-solving skills
- Promotes creative thinking
- Challenges the team’s ability to recognize patterns and interpret visual information
It’s a fun and engaging activity that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Personality Type Insights
Personality Type Insights is an activity that involves team members taking a personality test and discussing their results. This exercise promotes:
- Self-awareness
- A deeper understanding of others’ perspectives
- Fostering empathy
- A supportive work culture
By engaging in Personality Type Insights, team members learn to appreciate each other’s unique traits and strengths, leading to more effective communication and collaboration. This activity is an excellent way to foster meaningful relationships within the team and promote a positive and inclusive work environment.
Building Trust and Communication
Trust and communication form the bedrock of any successful team. In order to strengthen these vital skills, we have collated a list of engaging activities that aim to foster trust and improve communication within your team. These activities are designed to help your team members connect on a deeper level and foster a sense of understanding and empathy.
From Back-to-Back Drawing to The Hot Seat, these trust-building activities will challenge your team to overcome obstacles and work together more effectively. Participating in these exercises will not only strengthen your team’s communication skills but also contribute to a positive and supportive company culture.
Back-to-Back Drawing
Back-to-Back Drawing is a communication exercise that tests your team’s ability to convey information accurately and efficiently. Here’s how it works:
- Pair up with a teammate and sit back-to-back, facing opposite directions.
- One person is given a drawing, while the other is provided with a blank sheet of paper and a pencil.
- The person with the drawing must describe the image to their partner, who then attempts to recreate the drawing based on the verbal instructions.
This game not only enhances team communication and listening skills but also fosters creative thinking and problem-solving. Back-to-Back Drawing is a fun and engaging activity that will challenge your team’s ability to convey information effectively.
Blindfolded Obstacle Course
The Blindfolded Obstacle Course is a trust-building activity that requires team members to guide a blindfolded partner through a series of obstacles using only verbal instructions. This exercise promotes trust and collaboration between equal teams, as the blindfolded team member must rely on their partner to navigate the course safely.
To ensure success, clear instructions and encouragement are crucial. This exciting activity not only promotes trust and communication within the team but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and cooperation as team members work together to overcome the challenges of the obstacle course.
The Hot Seat
The Hot Seat is a game where team members take turns answering rapid-fire questions from their teammates. This activity promotes openness and vulnerability in team talking, encouraging team members to share their thoughts and opinions on various topics.
By engaging in The Hot Seat, team members learn to appreciate each other’s unique perspectives and ideas, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. This activity is perfect for enhancing team communication and collaboration while providing a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved in person teams.
Celebrating Team Achievements
The celebration of team achievements plays an integral role in nurturing a positive work environment and uplifting team morale. By acknowledging and appreciating each other’s accomplishments and contributions, team members feel valued and motivated to continue their hard work.
From giving Shout-Outs and Kudos to organizing Milestone Celebrations, these activities help create a supportive and collaborative work culture. Engaging in these celebrations not only enhances team communication and collaboration but also promotes a sense of camaraderie and unity within the team.
Shout-Outs and Kudos
Shout-Outs and Kudos are simple yet powerful ways for team members to recognize and appreciate each other’s accomplishments and contributions. By expressing gratitude and acknowledging the positive aspects of their teammates’ work, team members foster a sense of camaraderie and support within the team.
The simple act of giving Shout-Outs and Kudos not only boosts morale but also contributes to a positive company culture. Encourage your team members to recognize and appreciate each other’s achievements to promote a supportive and collaborative work environment.
Milestone Celebrations
Milestone Celebrations are events or occasions that mark significant moments or achievements in work or personal lives. These celebrations provide an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals and teams, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within the team.
Examples of Milestone Celebrations include:
- birthdays
- anniversaries
- promotions
- reaching sales targets
- other important milestones
Organizing these celebrations not only enhances team communication and collaboration but also promotes a sense of camaraderie and unity within group members of the team.
Gratitude Moments
Gratitude Moments is an activity where team members share something they are grateful for, promoting positivity and a supportive work culture. By expressing gratitude and acknowledging the positive aspects of their lives, team members foster a sense of camaraderie and support within the team.
Encourage your team members to share their Gratitude Moments regularly to cultivate a positive mindset and enhance overall well-being. This simple yet powerful activity can have a profound impact on team morale and contribute to a positive and supportive company culture.
Summary
In conclusion, team building activities are essential for fostering strong connections, collaboration, and communication within remote teams. By engaging in these activities, remote team members can enhance their communication skills, boost morale, and create meaningful relationships within the team.
So, gather your team and embark on this exciting journey of team-building activities that will not only unite your team but also contribute to a positive company culture. Remember, a strong and cohesive team is the key to success in today’s increasingly remote work environment. Go forth and conquer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fun team building activities?
Get your team excited about bonding with an indoor game of paper chains, book club, hack day, Pictionary, charades, trivia night, connecting the bridges, or an improv class!
What is the 30 seconds game for team building?
Get your team ready for an exciting 30 seconds game! With each team taking their turn to shout out the correct word in a set time, you’ll have half an hour of awesome time bonding as you compete. Competition is a great way to bring people together and have fun. It can also help to build team spirit and camaraderie. So
What are team building activities for small groups of adults?
Team building activities for small and large groups of adults include Icebreaker Team-Building Games, History Trivia Night, Best and Worst Experience, Terrarium-Making Class, Cross the Circle, Team Beach Day, Human Knot, Blind Retriever, Perfect Square, Two Truths, One Lie, Egg Drop, Office Debates, Lunch for the team, Spectrum mapping, Coat of arms, Pair-up, Cross the circle, Best and Worst, Letters from the future, Quick-fire trivia, and Tell my story – all of which are sure to bring your group closer together!
Why is trust and communication important for teams?
Trust and communication are essential for teams to work together seamlessly, fostering meaningful relationships that drive productivity.
Can team-building activities be adapted for virtual teams?
Absolutely! Team-building activities can be adapted for virtual teams with just a few simple adjustments, making them an easy and effective way to strengthen bonds between remote colleagues.