How to Design a 30-Minute Team Building Workshop for Remote Teams

Did you know that remote teams experience 60% more disengagement compared to in-office teams? Designing an engaging 30-minute team building workshop can be a game-changer for remote teams, fostering collaboration and enhancing relationships even from a distance. Here’s how to create a dynamic and effective workshop that keeps your team connected and motivated.

Define Your Objectives

Before diving into the logistics, clarify the goals of your workshop. Are you aiming to improve communication, build trust, or boost morale? Defining clear objectives will guide your planning process.

Sample Objectives:

• Enhance team communication skills
• Foster trust among team members
• Encourage creative problem solving

Choose the Right Activity

Selecting the right activity is crucial for engagement. Here are some remote-friendly options:

Activity Options:

1. Two Truths and a Lie

   • Time Needed: 10 minutes
   • Group Size: 5-20
   • Cost: Free
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Description: Each team member shares two true statements and one false statement. Others guess the lie.

2. Virtual Scavenger Hunt

   • Time Needed: 15 minutes
   • Group Size: 5-25
   • Cost: Free
   • Energy Level: Medium
   • Description: Create a list of items for team members to find in their homes within a time limit.

3. Emoji Check-In

   • Time Needed: 5 minutes
   • Group Size: 5-30
   • Cost: Free
   • Energy Level: Low
   • Description: Team members share how they feel using emojis.

Create a Detailed Agenda

Structure is key. Here’s a sample agenda for your 30-minute workshop:

Sample Agenda:

• 0-5 Minutes: Welcome and Overview
• 5-10 Minutes: Icebreaker Activity (e.g., Emoji Check-In)
• 10-25 Minutes: Main Activity (e.g., Virtual Scavenger Hunt)
• 25-30 Minutes: Wrap-Up and Feedback

Budget Breakdown

Even a short workshop requires careful budgeting. Here’s a sample budget for a 30-minute remote workshop:

Sample Budget:

| Item | Cost | Percentage Allocation | |-------------------------|---------------|-----------------------| | Platform Subscription | $0-50 | 10% | | Activity Materials | $0 | 0% | | Facilitator Fee (if applicable) | $100-200 | 60% | | Miscellaneous (prizes, etc.) | $50-100 | 30% | | Total | $150-350 | 100% |

Vendor Coordination Checklist

If you’re using an external facilitator or platform, ensure you have everything in place. Here’s a checklist:

Vendor Checklist:

• 8 Weeks Out: Research and book a facilitator or platform (Zoom, Teams).
• 4 Weeks Out: Confirm the agenda and activity details.
• 1 Week Out: Test technology and ensure all participants have access.

Risk Mitigation Strategy

Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Here are common risks and how to prevent them:

Common Risks:

• Technical Difficulties: Test your tech ahead of time. Have a backup plan (e.g., phone call).
• Low Engagement: Encourage participation by setting clear expectations and using engaging activities.
• Time Management: Stick to the agenda and keep track of time during the workshop.

Conclusion

Designing a 30-minute team building workshop for remote teams doesn’t have to be daunting. By defining your objectives, choosing the right activities, creating a detailed agenda, and preparing your budget and checklist, you can create an engaging experience that fosters connection and collaboration.

Action Items:

1. Define your workshop objectives.
2. Choose a suitable activity from the options mentioned.
3. Create your agenda and budget.
4. Coordinate with vendors and test your tech.