In recent years, the concept of company retreats has gained significant momentum as organizations recognize the importance of team building and fostering a strong company culture. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes, pushing companies to adapt to remote work setups and embrace the virtual landscape. With an increased reliance on tools like Zoom and a growing remote workforce, it has become crucial for businesses to explore innovative ways to keep their teams engaged and connected.
The transition to remote work has highlighted the need for virtual company retreats that can provide the same benefits as their in-person counterparts. While traditional icebreaker games or online bingo may have served their purpose, today’s remote teams crave more exciting and engaging activities to break the monotony of virtual meetings and foster meaningful connections. The challenge lies in finding retreat activities that are not only accessible and effective but also deliver the fun and camaraderie that are hallmarks of in-person retreats.
In this article, we will explore a range of company retreat ideas specifically designed for remote teams. These ideas go beyond the conventional and introduce fresh and dynamic ways to build team cohesion, boost morale, and strengthen the remote work culture. From virtual escape rooms to online cooking classes, we will dive into 15 exciting activities that can inject energy and enthusiasm into your remote team, ultimately enhancing collaboration and productivity.
Join us as we embark on this virtual journey of discovery, where we reimagine company retreats for the remote work era. Let’s create experiences that transcend physical limitations and foster the bonds that are essential for a thriving and successful remote team.
Idea #1: Virtual Escape Room: Teamwork and Thrills
The concept of virtual escape rooms has taken the world by storm, providing remote workers with an exhilarating and immersive team-building experience. Just like their in-person counterparts, virtual escape rooms challenge participants to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and escape within a set time limit, all within a captivating virtual environment.
One of the significant benefits of virtual escape rooms is their ability to promote teamwork and problem-solving skills among remote workers. Teams must collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and pool their collective intelligence to unravel the mysteries and achieve their shared objective. As participants work together to conquer the challenges presented by the escape room, they develop stronger bonds, improve communication, and sharpen their problem-solving abilities.
Several virtual escape room platforms or services are available to cater to different preferences and themes. Examples include “The Escape Game Remote Adventures,” “BreakoutIQ,” and “Trapped in the Web.” These platforms offer a wide range of scenarios, from solving a murder mystery in a haunted mansion to uncovering a hidden treasure on a deserted island. The average price range for virtual escape rooms is typically between $20 and $40 per person, depending on the complexity and duration of the escape room.
Idea #2) Online Cooking Class: Culinary Connections
The idea of virtual cooking classes has become increasingly popular among remote teams as a way to foster team bonding and create meaningful connections. These virtual culinary experiences bring team members together in a shared activity that combines creativity, communication, and the joy of preparing and enjoying delicious food.
Participating in virtual cooking classes offers several benefits for remote teams. Firstly, it provides a unique opportunity for team bonding, as members collaborate in real-time to follow recipes, share cooking tips, and exchange stories and laughter. The shared experience of cooking and enjoying a meal together creates a sense of camaraderie and strengthens relationships, even across remote locations.
To embark on a virtual cooking adventure, reputable online cooking class platforms can be a valuable resource. Platforms like “MasterClass,” “ChefSteps,” and “Rouxbe” offer a variety of cooking classes led by renowned chefs and culinary experts. These classes cover a wide range of cuisines, techniques, and skill levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
When considering the cost of virtual cooking classes, the average price range typically falls between $30 and $100 per person. The price may vary depending on factors such as the type of cuisine, the duration of the class, and the reputation of the instructor. It’s important to choose a class that suits your team’s interests and budget.
Idea #3) Team Trivia Night: Fun and Knowledge
Virtual trivia nights have become a popular choice for remote teams seeking an enjoyable and intellectually stimulating activity. These trivia games bring the thrill of friendly competition and the joy of knowledge sharing right to the screens of remote team members.
The concept of virtual trivia nights involves hosting a trivia game where participants compete individually or in teams to answer a series of questions across various categories. These virtual events often feature a host who guides the game, asks the questions, and keeps track of scores. Participants can engage in lively discussions, strategize, and showcase their knowledge, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Trivia games are an excellent way to foster friendly competition among remote teams. They not only test participants’ knowledge but also encourage teamwork, as team members can collaborate and pool their expertise to arrive at the correct answers. Additionally, trivia nights create opportunities for knowledge sharing, as team members learn from each other and expand their understanding of various subjects.
There are several resources and platforms available for hosting virtual trivia nights. Platforms like “Kahoot!,” “QuizUp,” and “Crowdpurr” offer customizable trivia experiences, allowing you to create your own quizzes or choose from existing question sets. If you prefer a hosted trivia event, you can find professional hosts or trivia companies that provide interactive trivia experiences for remote teams.
The average price range for a hosted trivia event typically falls between $10 and $25 per person. However, if you prefer to organize the trivia night internally, there are free online trivia platforms available that you can utilize.
Idea #4) Virtual Team Building Games: Collaboration and Engagement
Team building activities play a crucial role in nurturing strong bonds and fostering a positive remote work culture. These activities not only promote collaboration and engagement but also help remote teams develop trust, improve communication, and boost morale. In the virtual environment, team building games have emerged as a creative and effective way to achieve these goals.
A variety of online team building games and activities are available to cater to different team dynamics and objectives. These games are specifically designed to engage remote team members, encourage collaboration, and inject fun into virtual interactions. Examples of virtual team building games include virtual scavenger hunts, online escape rooms, interactive quizzes, virtual board games, and collaborative storytelling exercises.
Virtual scavenger hunts, for instance, prompt team members to search their surroundings for specific items within a time limit, promoting teamwork and problem-solving. Online escape rooms challenge teams to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries together, fostering communication and critical thinking. Interactive quizzes provide an opportunity for friendly competition while testing team members’ knowledge across various subjects.
The average price range for virtual team building games varies based on factors such as the complexity and customization of the games. Some pre-built platforms offer a range of games at a lower cost, typically between $10 and $30 per person. If you prefer more personalized experiences or specialized facilitators, the price range can extend up to $50 per person.
Idea #5) Wellness Retreat: Balance and Well-being
Promoting wellness is of paramount importance for remote teams, as it contributes to the overall health, happiness, and productivity of team members. Remote work can often blur the boundaries between personal and professional life, making it crucial to prioritize self-care and create opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. A virtual wellness retreat provides the perfect solution, offering remote teams a chance to focus on their well-being and find balance in their lives.
Virtual wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and fitness classes are excellent options to incorporate into a wellness retreat. These activities can be conducted live or accessed through pre-recorded sessions, allowing team members to participate at their convenience. Yoga and meditation sessions help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. Fitness classes offer opportunities for physical activity, boosting energy levels and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to wellness activities, the retreat can provide valuable tips for creating a “zen” home office environment that promotes focus and productivity. Suggestions may include incorporating natural elements, optimizing lighting and ergonomics, and establishing clear boundaries between work and personal spaces.
To access virtual wellness sessions, reputable platforms and instructors can be sought out. Platforms like “Down Dog,” “Calm,” and “Peloton” offer a variety of virtual wellness classes led by experienced instructors. Alternatively, companies can hire specialized wellness experts to conduct tailored sessions for their remote teams.
The average price range for virtual wellness sessions typically falls between $10 and $30 per person, depending on the duration and expertise of the instructor or platform used. It’s important to consider the value and benefits offered by different platforms and instructors to ensure a rewarding wellness retreat experience.
Idea #6) Remote Scavenger Hunt: Adventure and Teamwork
A remote scavenger hunt offers an exciting and interactive way for remote teams to come together, engage in group activities, and embark on an adventure from the comfort of their own homes. The concept involves creating a list of items, clues, or challenges that team members must find or complete within a specified time frame, using their surroundings and online resources.
This fun-filled activity encourages collaboration and problem-solving as remote teams work together to decipher clues, strategize their search, and find the hidden treasures. By engaging in a virtual scavenger hunt, team members not only develop their teamwork skills but also enhance their communication, creativity, and critical thinking abilities.
To facilitate remote scavenger hunts, various tools and platforms can be utilized. Online platforms like GooseChase, Scavify, or Actionbound provide customizable templates and features that make it easy to create and host virtual scavenger hunts. These platforms enable participants to submit photo or video evidence, track progress, and engage in real-time updates and interactions.
The cost of a remote scavenger hunt can vary depending on the complexity and customization of the game. Pre-built platforms typically range from $10 to $25 per person. However, designing and organizing the scavenger hunt internally using free templates or resources can make it a cost-effective option.
Idea #7) Fireside Chat: Inspirational Insights
Bringing in guest speakers and fostering knowledge sharing are valuable initiatives for remote teams. One impactful way to achieve this is through virtual fireside chats, where team members have the opportunity to engage with industry experts, thought leaders, or internal speakers in an intimate and conversational setting.
Virtual fireside chats offer several benefits for remote teams. They provide a platform for brainstorming ideas, gaining fresh perspectives, and learning from the experiences of others. These sessions inspire and motivate team members, fueling their creativity and driving innovation. By hearing insights and success stories from guest speakers, remote teams can expand their knowledge, broaden their horizons, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
When organizing a fireside chat, consider inviting guest speakers who are renowned in their fields or have expertise in areas relevant to your team’s work. Examples may include CEOs, industry influencers, motivational speakers, or subject matter experts. Additionally, internal speakers, such as company executives or team leaders, can share their experiences and insights.
The cost of fireside chats can vary depending on the speaker’s expertise and reputation. Inviting internal speakers or industry experts who are willing to share their insights can be free of charge. However, if you decide to hire external speakers, fees can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and prominence.
Idea #8) Virtual Museum Tour: Cultural Exploration
Virtual museum tours offer a unique and enriching experience for remote teams, providing an opportunity to explore the world’s renowned museums and art galleries from the comfort of their own homes. These tours hold immense educational and cultural value, allowing team members to delve into history, discover diverse art forms, and broaden their perspectives.
There are numerous virtual museum tours and art gallery experiences available, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences. Museums such as the Louvre, British Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and National Gallery offer virtual tours that allow participants to navigate through exhibition halls, view artifacts, and engage with informative descriptions. Additionally, some platforms like Google Arts & Culture provide access to a vast collection of virtual exhibitions and artworks from museums worldwide.
Engaging in virtual museum tours benefits remote teams in several ways. It promotes cultural exploration and appreciation, fostering a sense of curiosity and open-mindedness within the team. Virtual tours also facilitate team bonding and conversations as team members share their observations and reflections on the art and exhibits. Furthermore, these tours offer a break from work-related activities, providing a refreshing and inspiring experience that can rejuvenate creativity and critical thinking.
Many virtual museum tours are available free of charge, allowing remote teams to explore a plethora of exhibits and artworks without incurring any cost. However, it’s worth noting that some museums may charge a nominal fee for special exhibits or guided tours. Before embarking on a virtual museum tour, it is advisable to check the museum’s website for any fees or requirements.
Idea #9) Creative Workshops: Skills Enhancement
Continuous learning and skill development are vital for the growth and success of remote teams. Engaging in virtual creative workshops provides an excellent opportunity for team members to acquire new skills, enhance their existing talents, and unleash their creative potential. These workshops can be a valuable addition to a corporate retreat or a standalone virtual retreat activity.
Virtual workshops cover a wide range of creative topics, including graphic design, photography, writing, painting, storytelling, and more. These sessions are designed to be interactive and hands-on, allowing participants to learn and practice new techniques in real-time. Engaging in creative workshops not only expands individual skill sets but also promotes innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration within the team.
When seeking out creative workshops, there are several providers and platforms to consider. Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, and CreativeLive offer a diverse range of virtual workshops facilitated by industry professionals and experts. Additionally, many individual instructors and artists offer their own workshops, either independently or through specialized platforms.
The cost of virtual creative workshops can vary depending on factors such as the topic, duration, and expertise of the facilitator. On average, prices range from $20 to $100 or more per person. It’s essential to consider the value, quality, and reputation of the workshop provider or facilitator when making a selection.
Idea #10) Outdoor Adventure Challenges: Solo Exploration, Shared Experience
While remote teams may be physically dispersed, individual outdoor activities offer a fantastic opportunity to engage in offsite adventures while fostering a shared experience. These activities allow team members to connect with nature, explore their surroundings, and enjoy a sense of adventure on their own terms.
There is a wide range of outdoor activities that team members can partake in individually or by coordinating meetups with nearby colleagues. Examples include hiking, biking, kayaking, nature photography, geocaching, or even participating in local charity runs or walks. These activities provide an opportunity for team members to immerse themselves in nature, embrace physical activity, and find moments of solitude or rejuvenation.
To enhance the shared experience, participants can virtually share their outdoor adventures through designated channels or platforms. They can exchange stories, photos, or videos, discussing their favorite moments or challenges faced during their individual journeys. This virtual sharing allows team members to connect, support, and cheer each other on, fostering a sense of camaraderie and encouragement.
The cost of outdoor activities can vary depending on the specific adventure chosen by participants. Expenses may include equipment rental, park or trail fees, or guided experiences. Prices typically range from $20 to $100 or more per person, depending on factors such as the activity, location, and level of assistance required.
Idea #11) Team Talent Show: Showcasing Hidden Skills
A virtual talent show presents a delightful opportunity for remote teams to showcase their hidden talents, foster team bonding, and boost morale. This creative event allows team members to share their unique skills and passions in an entertaining and supportive virtual environment.
Talent shows offer a range of benefits for remote teams, including enhanced team bonding, increased camaraderie, and improved employee engagement. They create a sense of excitement and celebration as team members discover and appreciate each other’s talents, fostering a positive and inclusive team culture. Talent shows also provide a platform for individuals to step out of their comfort zones, boost their confidence, and inspire others through their performances.
Organizing a virtual talent show can be facilitated through various methods. One approach is to create a structured program where team members sign up in advance and pre-record their performances, which are then shared during a virtual event. Another option is to host a live talent show using video conferencing platforms, allowing team members to perform in real-time. Providing a theme or specific categories can add an extra element of fun and creativity to the talent show.
The cost of a virtual talent show is typically minimal or even free, as it relies on the talents and performances of team members. The focus is on creating an enjoyable and engaging experience for everyone involved, rather than financial considerations. From musical karaoke performances to comedy sketches, dance routines to poetry recitals, the talent show becomes a platform for remote teams to shine and celebrate their diverse talents.
Idea #12) Book Club: Intellectual Stimulation and Connection
A virtual book club offers remote teams a platform for intellectual stimulation, personal growth, and meaningful connections. By collectively exploring thought-provoking literature, team members can engage in insightful discussions and develop a shared sense of curiosity and knowledge.
Recommendations for books that promote personal or professional growth abound, catering to a variety of interests and goals. These can include self-help books, leadership and management literature, industry-specific publications, or thought-provoking fiction. Selecting books that align with the team’s interests and objectives can enhance engagement and encourage personal development.
A book club creates an avenue for team members to connect on a deeper level beyond work-related discussions. Through thought-provoking conversations about characters, themes, and ideas, team members can gain new perspectives, broaden their understanding, and foster a sense of camaraderie. The book club format encourages active listening, empathy, and critical thinking, nurturing an environment that values diverse viewpoints and encourages respectful dialogue.
Participating in a book club typically requires the purchase of books, which can range from $10 to $30 per book, depending on the format and availability. However, organizing book club discussions internally incurs no additional costs. Team members can leverage video conferencing or collaboration tools to hold virtual discussions, allowing everyone to share their insights, ask questions, and explore different interpretations.
Idea #13) Virtual Movie Night: Shared Entertainment
A virtual movie night offers remote teams an enjoyable and engaging way to connect through shared entertainment. It allows team members to come together virtually and enjoy a movie simultaneously, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experience despite being physically apart.
To facilitate virtual movie nights, there are several platforms or services available that enable synchronized streaming. These platforms include Netflix Party, Watch2Gether, and Scener, which allow team members to watch the same movie in real-time and chat alongside the movie. Additionally, streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney+ offer built-in watch party features, allowing team members to synchronize their movie viewing experiences.
To further enhance the movie night, consider engaging in discussions or activities related to the movie. This can include post-movie discussions where team members share their thoughts, favorite moments, or relate the movie’s themes to their work or personal lives. You can also organize trivia quizzes, movie-themed quizzes, or even encourage team members to dress up as their favorite movie characters.
The cost of a virtual movie night typically depends on the streaming platforms or services chosen. Popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney+ range from $8 to $15 per month. However, it’s important to note that some platforms or services may require additional fees for specific movies or rentals.
Idea #14) Professional Development Webinars: Learning from Experts
Professional development webinars offer remote teams valuable opportunities to enhance their skills, gain industry insights, and learn from subject matter experts. These virtual learning experiences provide numerous benefits that contribute to individual and team growth.
By participating in professional development webinars, remote teams can access a wealth of knowledge and expertise in a convenient and flexible format. Webinars cover a wide range of topics, including leadership development, communication skills, project management, sales techniques, and industry-specific trends. They allow team members to acquire new skills, stay updated with the latest industry advancements, and foster professional growth.
When organizing professional development webinars, consider inviting reputable speakers or industry experts who can share their expertise and engage the audience effectively. Look for professionals who have a track record of delivering engaging and informative presentations. Some potential speakers may include renowned authors, industry thought leaders, or experienced practitioners with valuable insights to share.
There are various platforms and resources available to host professional development webinars. Popular options include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, GoToWebinar, or Webex. These platforms provide features such as breakout rooms, chat functions, and screen sharing capabilities, enabling interactive and engaging sessions for both small and large groups.
The cost of professional development webinars can vary widely, depending on factors such as the speaker’s reputation, the complexity of the topic, and the duration of the session. Prices range from free for certain webinars, particularly those hosted by industry associations or educational institutions, to $50 – $200+ per person for specialized training sessions offered by well-known experts or training organizations.
Idea #15) Virtual Game Tournament: Friendly Competition and Fun
A virtual game tournament offers remote teams an exciting opportunity to engage in friendly competition, foster team spirit, and have fun together. It allows team members to come together virtually and participate in multiplayer games, unleashing their competitive spirits while building stronger connections.
There is a plethora of popular online multiplayer games that lend themselves well to team competitions. Games like Fortnite, Among Us, Overwatch, League of Legends, and Rocket League are just a few examples of titles that offer engaging team-based gameplay. These games provide a platform for remote teams to collaborate, strategize, and compete against each other in virtual arenas.
Organizing and facilitating a virtual game tournament can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. You can set up dedicated gaming sessions where team members compete against each other, either individually or in teams. Utilize existing online multiplayer platforms or consider specialized tournament platforms that offer additional features and functionalities for managing and tracking tournament progress. Alternatively, you can hire gaming event organizers who specialize in creating engaging and well-structured virtual game tournaments.
To add an extra element of excitement, consider hosting an awards ceremony at the conclusion of the games. Recognize outstanding performances, highlight memorable moments, and celebrate team accomplishments. This can be a lighthearted and enjoyable way to wrap up the tournament and create a sense of camaraderie among team members.
The cost of a virtual game tournament can vary depending on the resources and platforms used. Using existing online multiplayer games is generally free. However, if you choose to use specialized tournament platforms or hire gaming event organizers, prices can range from $10 – $50 per person, depending on the complexity and customization of the event.
Tips for Hosting a Virtual Team Retreat
Planning a virtual retreat for your remote team requires careful consideration and thoughtful organization. Here are a few tips to help you create a successful and engaging remote company retreat experience:
- Tailor Retreat Ideas to Your Team: Each remote team has unique interests and goals. Review and select the virtual retreat ideas that best align with your team’s preferences and objectives. Whether it’s virtual escape rooms, online cooking classes, or outdoor adventure challenges, selecting activities that resonate with your remote employee will increase engagement and enjoyment.
- Foster Team Cohesion: Well-planned virtual retreats can have a positive impact on remote team dynamics. By promoting collaboration, communication, and connection, these retreats help cultivate a strong sense of camaraderie and unity among team members, despite physical distances.
- Consider Employee Time Zones: Take into account the diverse time zones of your team members when planning the retreat activities and scheduling. Opt for time slots that are convenient for everyone, allowing for maximum participation and minimizing scheduling conflicts.
- Choose Effective Communication Channels: Utilize video call platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet to facilitate face-to-face interactions during the retreat. Video conferencing helps create a sense of connection and allows for non-verbal communication cues that can enhance engagement and collaboration.
- Send Out Company Swag: Make the retreat experience more memorable and enjoyable by sending out company swag to your team members. It could be branded merchandise, customized gift items, or even gift cards to show appreciation and foster team spirit.
- Utilize Collaboration Tools: Leverage tools like Slack or other team collaboration platforms to maintain ongoing communication, share important information, and facilitate real-time collaboration during the retreat planning process and throughout the retreat itself.
By taking these tips into account, you can effectively plan and execute a virtual company retreat full of fun activities that promotes engagement, strengthens team bonds, and fosters a sense of togetherness among your remote workforce. Through strategic retreat planning, seamless communication, and thoughtful gestures like company swag, you can create a memorable and impactful staff retreat experience that resonates with your team members regardless of their geographical locations.