As a result of the pandemic, far more professionals are working remotely today than ever before. While many teams say productivity picked up and were better able to maintain work-life balance, the lack of social interaction with their colleagues hindered job satisfaction and engagement.

During the early days of COVID-19, companies may have had little to offer in the way of social opportunities. However, not that telecommuting routines are more established, integrating strategies that allow for stronger connections is essential. Not only can it improve engagement, but it also makes your workforce happier and more productive, all while reducing turnover.

If you are wondering how you can improve social interaction for your remote team, here’s what you need to know.

Use Video Calling Strategically

While video calling usage rose dramatically during the pandemic, the technology isn’t without its drawbacks. Many professionals spend a significant amount of their workday in video meetings, creating a level of fatigue and decreasing overall productivity.

Video calling can have a place in the landscape. However, companies need to use it strategically. Instead of conducting video meetings for every discussion, limit meetings only to times where speaking face-to-face is essential. For example, alternatives like message boards and project management tools can be more effective for distributing information, so rely on those instead.

Then, you can use video for more socially-oriented activities. Along with the occasional in-person meeting, you can allow employees to have casual conversations with their colleagues. That way, they can mimic the watercooler experience even if they aren’t in the same building.

Create a Virtual Breakroom

In a similar vein, creating a virtual breakroom can give employees a space to engage socially. Team members can log into it when they are having lunch or enjoying a cup of coffee, allowing them to have relaxed conversations outside of the broader workspace.

By including messaging features, employees could also post updates about their personal lives. Pictures of home office remodel, family pets, and gardens could let workers engage with each other in new ways. Similarly, allowing them to share stories about different aspects of their lives can create a sense of camaraderie.

Set Up Virtual Team-Building Events

There are numerous ways to have a team-building event entirely online. There are online games that can be done collectively, allowing you to engage in a bit of fun while thinking strategically. Additionally, you can find platforms that let multiple people watch movies, television, or other kinds of performances together.

Coordinating a dinner by sending everyone a gift card to a local restaurant could also work. Once the food arrives, everyone can log into web conferencing software and simply enjoy each other’s company.

If you want to add something quirky to the mix, choose a Bob Ross video and send every employee the paints they’ll need. Next, watch the show together, following the instructions. Then, once it’s done, have everyone reveal their masterpieces.

Consider how you can gather online and take part in an activity together that doesn’t involve work. Nearly anything is worth considering, so speak to your employees about their interests and see which options may work for them.

If you’d like to find out more, the staff at VB can help. Contact us today.