When the pandemic pushed us all into remote work, one team I worked with fell into a common trap: they started to see each other as to-do lists rather than as human beings. To shake things up, we hosted a fun workshop that had nothing to do with their jobs. Instead, we dived into innovation in an area totally outside their traditional comfort zones. The results? They laughed, they joked, they smiled, they told stories, and they found new ways to connect and see each other as more than just coworkers.

When No One Wants to Turn Their Camera On

Running this workshop highlighted a big issue many remote teams face: losing personal connections. It’s easy to see each other as just emails and names plastered across black screens in Zoom calls. My solution was a workshop that evened the playing field and encouraged genuine interactions. By the end, they were not just solving the challenge I'd given them but sharing personal stories and interests, laughing, and connecting on a deeper level.

Key Takeaways

• Online Microaggressions Matter: Being mindful of language and tone in virtual meetings can prevent misunderstandings and foster a respectful environment.

• Inclusive Virtual Team Meetings: Encourage participation from everyone, use icebreakers, and ensure all voices are heard.

• Work-Life Balance: Respect diverse working hours and personal situations, offering flexibility to maintain a healthy balance.

The Lesson I Learned

Fun and laughter are powerful tools for building openness and trust. When teams connect over shared experiences outside of their usual work, they build camaraderie and compassion.

P.S.

Ready to transform your remote team into a more inclusive and connected group? Reach out and we can build a custom workshop focused on the non-work-related topic of your choice!