The Best Exercises For Collaboration

In a world where working remotely is now the norm, keeping your team connected and productive can feel like herding cats. With everyone spread across different locations and time zones, the question looms: how do you get your team to collaborate effectively? That’s where virtual collaboration activities for work come into play! These activities not only bridge the distance but also foster creativity, communication, and teamwork—all while injecting a bit of fun into your workday.

Whether you’re managing a fully remote team or embracing a hybrid work model, keeping everyone on the same page (and having fun while doing it) is crucial. So, let’s dive into some creative ways to bring your team together in the virtual world.

15 Virtual Collaboration Activities for Work

1. Virtual Brainstorming Sessions

When ideas are the name of the game, a good ol’ brainstorming session is just what the doctor ordered. Tools like Miro, Lucidchart, or Google Jamboard allow your team to collaborate in real-time. No need to crowd around a whiteboard—you’ve got all the digital space you need to get creative.

2. Virtual Coffee Breaks

Sometimes the best collaboration happens over a cup of coffee. Schedule regular virtual coffee breaks where team members can casually chat about work—or not. These moments build relationships and help foster a sense of camaraderie that can boost collaboration in more formal settings.

3. Online Workshops

Give your team the opportunity to learn something new together. Whether it's a design thinking workshop, a writing course, or leadership training, online workshops allow your team to grow their skills while collaborating and sharing insights in real-time.

4. Collaborative Online Games

Who says work and play don’t mix? Games like Pictionary, Charades, or Trivia can be adapted for virtual settings and provide an entertaining way to boost problem-solving and teamwork. Websites like Internet Game offer a variety of multiplayer games that can be tailored to your work team’s needs.

Want access to seriously fun online games for remote teams? Check out Internet Game!

5. Virtual Hackathons

Get those competitive juices flowing! A hackathon encourages your team to tackle a project in a set amount of time. The ticking clock fosters fast thinking, collaboration, and teamwork under pressure. Plus, it's a great way to spark innovation and creativity within the team.

6. Virtual Team Building Challenges

Think of these like your traditional team-building exercises but made for Zoom! From escape room-style puzzles to scavenger hunts that require collaboration, these activities encourage teamwork and problem-solving in a fun, virtual environment.

7. Group Problem-Solving Sessions

Pick a problem—any problem—and throw it at your team. This could be related to work or something completely out of left field. Divide your team into small groups and let them come up with a solution. You’ll be amazed at how different perspectives come together to create innovative solutions.

8. Virtual Book Clubs

Bring the team together with a virtual book club. Pick a book related to your industry or choose something fun and lighthearted. After reading, have a virtual meeting to discuss key takeaways and thoughts. It’s a low-pressure way to collaborate and bond over shared interests.

9. Co-working Sessions

Sometimes collaboration is simply working alongside each other. Host virtual co-working sessions where everyone logs into a video call, mutes their mics, and works independently. At the end, open the floor for discussion about what everyone accomplished and any roadblocks they faced.

10. Online Whiteboard Tools

Using online tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday, your team can collaborate on project planning, task delegation, and brainstorming ideas. These platforms let you manage tasks in real-time, making it easy for everyone to see the bigger picture and contribute where needed.

11. Virtual Town Halls

Keep everyone in the loop by hosting virtual town halls. It’s a great opportunity to align the team’s efforts, share company updates, and invite feedback. Encourage questions and discussions to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

12. Virtual Lunch & Learn

Hosting a virtual lunch & learn lets your team break up the workday while gaining valuable insights. Invite a guest speaker or have a team member lead the session on a topic they’re passionate about. This gives everyone a chance to learn while collaborating and asking questions.

13. Cross-Departmental Meetings

Collaboration isn’t limited to just your immediate team. Set up cross-departmental meetings to encourage knowledge sharing and problem-solving across different areas of expertise. It’s a great way to break down silos and spark innovation.

14. Virtual Mentorship Programs

Pair team members across different levels or departments in a mentorship program. These relationships help foster growth, communication, and collaboration on both sides. Mentorship can happen through regular virtual check-ins and project collaborations.

15. Collaborative Brain Dumps

Sometimes, you’ve just gotta get everything out of your head! Host a brain dump session where each team member shares ideas, challenges, or insights about their work. Then, as a group, brainstorm ways to address these issues or build upon the ideas.

# FAQs About Virtual Collaboration Activities for Work

1. What tools do we need for virtual collaboration activities? You'll need a video conferencing platform like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet, along with collaboration tools like Trello, Miro, or Slack to keep things organized.

2. How often should we schedule virtual collaboration activities? It depends on your team’s needs. Regular activities, like weekly check-ins or monthly team-building games, can help maintain a consistent level of engagement.

3. Are virtual collaboration activities as effective as in-person ones? They can be! Virtual collaboration activities, when done right, can build communication and teamwork skills just as effectively as in-person activities—if not more so, given the flexibility of remote work environments.

4. What if my team isn’t interested in virtual activities? It's important to get input from your team on what types of activities interest them. Try different formats and see what resonates. Collaboration should be fun, not forced.

5. Can these activities help with productivity? Absolutely! Many of these activities are designed to foster better communication and teamwork, which can directly improve productivity and project outcomes.

Conclusion

Virtual collaboration doesn’t have to be a chore! With the right activities and tools, you can foster a productive and positive work environment, no matter where your team members are located. From brainstorming sessions to virtual coffee breaks, there’s something for everyone. Keep your team engaged, keep them communicating, and you’ll see the benefits in no time.