CONNECTING ONLINE How to bring your team closer, virtually

Sarah Cooke

Marketing & Communications Manager 360.567.1058 | scooke@vancouverusa.com

Connecting Teams Online 5 WAYS TO FOCUS TOGETHER

Our “new normal” is affecting most everything these days, but one thing stays constant: connection. Although the in-person networking events and staff meetings have taken a brief pause, it’s still extremely important to stay connected with your peers, clients, and executive team. Here are some tips for you to make the most out of your next meeting, no-matter the platform:

Video Chat Being able to see your team is more important than ever in times like these. For meetings or quick updates, consider video-chatting with everyone involved to mitigate some potential miscommunication by seeing nonverbal cues you may otherwise miss due to phone calls or emails.

Instant Message Using messaging applications allows team members to communicate in real time! This saves from scrolling through long email chains and offers more opportunities for instant problem-solving. Pro Tip: If your message needs a little zest, cat GIFs are always a good option.

Team Happy Hour If your team’s monthly after-hours social has been paused for the time-being, try out a group video chat! Host a trivia night, or play virtual charades, while encouraging each team member to have snacks and their favorite beverage handy.

Lunch Dates In-office scenarios allow for opportunities to grab lunch with your co-workers. As many of us are adjusting to virtual office life, schedule a lunch break with your team to break the cycle! Although this won’t replace the real thing, it’s a great opportunity to take a break with some of your peers.

Create Together If your team is interested, create a working document that you all can edit, with some of your favorite funny videos and jokes. From there, send out an internal “Video of the Week”, or even your own Fun Note Friday, to boost your team’s morale, meanwhile keeping your creativity flowing!