A short Guide on Planning Virtual Team Activities | Publicis Sapient Bangalore Feedback

Managers recognize that enhancing interpersonal relationships, communication and bonding within the team are essential for productivity in prolonged virtual interactions. Ever since remote working became the new normal, organizations are looking for innovative team activities to keep the morale high.

 

I am constantly looking for virtual activities to create magic similar to a team outing I had in Sapient Razorfish Bangalore in 2018. It is one of my most cherished memories because the interpersonal relationship made that day have left a lasting impression.  

In big organizations, team size varies per project from small to large, based on which types of activities also change. Hence, I am listing the best team engagement activities for both scenarios.

 

A. Activities suitable for team size less than 50 members 

In a small group, you can include a personal touch to the games such as identifying a person from childhood pictures, three quirky facts and so on. Small teams generally have strong communication and bonding between them. They tend to try unique activities easily. 

 

For example, “Fun Friday Hour” organized last month in my team took the Sapient Bangalore work culture to the next level. The whole team dressed up for the virtual party with a funny hat and glasses, while friendly banter enhanced bonding. We played quizzes and danced with the kids. Kids loved the games as they could participate in their parent's meetings while the whole team appreciated kids’ inclusion. 

Next time, you too can include kids-friendly activities for inclusion and fun!

 

B. Virtual Activities suitable for team size 50 and more

You can include traditional games also such as Antakshari and Dumb Charades for virtual engagement for large teams. Organizing mind-boggling games or memory teaser games is also a good option.

 

Other than that, you can anyways play games through Kahoot! or other free online gaming platforms for large teams. As an example, on 2020 New Year’s Eve, we played multiple challenges across 300+ team members organized through Kahoot! They were easy to track and freed organizers to enjoy the game. 

 

I read in one of the Publicis Sapient Bangalore feedback, a Java team had organized a “Paint the Face” activity where prizes were given for different categories like the most hilarious concept, best abstract art, best watercolor artist and best pencil shading artist. I think similar activities can be organized online easily.