As the world tiptoes through the digital age, remote working has become the new normal, inviting a parade of unique challenges that can make even the most seasoned managers scratch their heads.
In fact, a study carried out by USA Today found the most significant issue faced by U.S. employees is the feeling of isolation from their team, with 34% of respondents citing this concern. Other notable challenges include having fewer opportunities to learn from colleagues (25%), difficulty in disconnecting from work (22%), limited access to necessary resources and equipment (21%), increased feelings of depression (11%), and heightened stress or burnout (9%).
With these virtual hurdles, it's crucial for leaders of remote companies to get creative in showing appreciation for their teams. After all, a little recognition can go a long way in keeping spirits high and keyboards clacking!
So, let's explore some thoughtful ways to cherish and motivate our virtual crews.
25 Virtual employee appreciation ideas
1. Mystery coffee meetings
Bring a sprinkle of spontaneity to the virtual office with Mystery Coffee Meetings! This fun initiative involves randomly pairing employees for a virtual coffee chat. Simply select a pairing tool, schedule a 30-minute virtual meeting, and let the conversation flow. It's a fantastic way to start a conversation with someone they wouldn’t usually start one with and inject some excitement into the daily routine.
These surprise meetings encourage employees to step out of their work silos and interact with colleagues they might not typically work with, enhancing team cohesion and cross-departmental understanding. Plus, it's a great way to show appreciation by investing in your team's social well-being and professional network expansion.
Surf Office’s top tip:
Why not really treat your team and sign them up for a coffee subscription? Yes, you really can get a subscription for anything you please these days. And while there are weird and wonderful subscription creations, coffee is definitely part of the wonderful category. Check out this website for your next coffee subscription!
2. Ice cream social
Sweeten up the workday with an Ice Cream Social! Send ice cream vouchers to your team and set a date for everyone to come together on a video call to enjoy their treats. This event has it all; indulging in ice cream, the chance to share stories and mix some unorthodox flavors! Talk about creating a shared experience that’s both delicious and delightful!
It’s an easy and effective way to cool off the stresses of remote work while heating up team spirit. This kind of casual, fun-filled meet-up can greatly boost morale and show your team that their happiness is valued, all while enjoying a sweet escape together.
3. Custom swag
Nothing says 'team spirit' like custom company swag! Design and distribute personalized items like t-shirts, mugs, or notebooks that reflect your company’s identity or an inside joke that your team appreciates.
This thoughtful gesture not only gives employees something physical to hold onto but also reinforces their sense of belonging to the team. It’s a visual and practical way to unite the group and boost company pride. Each item can be a conversation starter in video calls, reinforcing a cohesive team culture. Think about it, who doesn’t like to receive a surprise package in the mail? It's a stylish way to show appreciation and keep your team feeling connected and valued.
Surf Office’s top tip
Lacking in the ideas department for good swag? No problem, Surf Office actually has the cure! We’ve set up Swagalogue to get those swaggy juices going!
4. Language classes
Who says learning can't be a blast? Offer virtual language classes or conversation clubs to your remote team! Simply choose a popular language-learning platform or connect with a language school that provides online courses. Schedule regular sessions where employees can engage in real-time practice with native speakers, fostering not only language skills but cultural exchange as well.
This shows appreciation by investing in your team's personal and professional growth. Plus, it's a fantastic way to break the monotony of daily routines, allowing employees to mentally "travel" and expand their horizons without leaving home.
5. Virtual reality exploration
Take your team on an extraordinary journey with Virtual Reality! Equip them with VR headsets and grant access to apps that allow exploration of distant lands or even outer space. Organize virtual trips where teams can tour ancient ruins, stroll through foreign cities, or hop between planets.
This offers a unique escape from everyday life and also sparks creativity and team bonding. Demonstrating appreciation through such innovative adventures shows you care about their experiences and well-being, making work life incredibly exciting!
6. Craft beer tasting
Ready to raise a glass to your team? Send out craft beer kits and host a virtual tasting session. Select a variety of beers from different breweries, including tasting notes and pairing suggestions. Set up a webinar or a casual group chat where everyone can sip, savor, and discuss their impressions.
This not only enhances their tasting skills but also encourages a relaxed, sociable environment. It's a perfect way to show appreciation by catering to their tastes, literally! Plus, it's a great way to wind down together and toast to your collective achievements. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be an alcoholic beer! If your team, or members of your team, aren’t keen on the alcoholic type of beer, there are plenty of options for non-alcoholic beers with great flavours available on the market!
Surf Office’s top tip:
Check out Spiegelau’s store for your craft beer dreams!
7. Flash fiction contest
Spark some creative fun with a Flash Fiction Contest! Set an imaginative theme, like "A Day Without Technology," and challenge your team to craft stories under 500 words. Offer intriguing prizes such as gift cards, gadgets, or an extra day off to make it exciting.
This activity encourages creativity and provides a delightful break from the daily online grind. It's an engaging way to show appreciation, allowing employees to showcase their storytelling prowess and share their narratives.
Celebrate their creativity and watch as they amuse and amaze with their literary talents!
8. Astrology readings
Dive into the stars with personal astrology readings for your team! Hire a professional astrologer and organize a Zoom session where each employee gets a personal reading. This can be a fascinating and fun experience, allowing your team to explore their astrological signs and what the stars have in store for them.
It's a great way to show appreciation by offering a personalized and thoughtful experience that values their individuality. This session can lead to interesting discussions and a deeper understanding of one another, strengthening team bonds and adding a touch of mystique to your workplace dynamics. Let them connect with the cosmos and each other in a unique and memorable way.
9. Online puzzle challenge
Get those brain cells firing with an Online Puzzle Challenge! Choose complex puzzles that require clever thinking and teamwork, like virtual escape rooms or intricate logic puzzles. Organize your virtual team into groups and let them tackle the challenges together.
This activity not only breaks the monotony of everyday tasks but also strengthens team collaboration and problem-solving skills. Show your appreciation by engaging them in a fun, intellectual exercise that stimulates their minds and fosters team spirit. It’s a fantastic way to combine development with recreation, proving that work can be both productive and playful. Celebrate their successes and the innovative solutions they bring to the table!
10. Virtual bingo
Virtual Bingo brings a playful twist to remote work. Set it up with digital bingo cards and a live online number generator, and make sure to line up some enticing prizes like online shopping vouchers or extra vacation hours.
This game is perfect for injecting fun and excitement into the work routine, showing your team that you value their happiness and engagement. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to get everyone interacting in a light-hearted competition, breaking down barriers and fostering a strong sense of team spirit—all while having a good laugh together!
Surf Office’s top tip
Check out Lets Play Bingo to get the ball rolling in your Zoom rooms!
11. Pyjama Day
Pajama Day is all about comfort and fun. Declare a day where everyone can ditch the formal wear and show up to video calls in their comfiest pyjamas. This casual event helps create a relaxed atmosphere, reducing stress and making everyone feel more at ease.
It’s a great way to appreciate your team by prioritizing comfort and showcasing the human side of work. Plus, seeing your colleagues in their pajamas can be a real icebreaker and a source of many smiles, reinforcing a culture of openness and care within the team.
12. Origami workshop
An Origami Workshop is a creative and soothing way to engage your virtual team. Organize a session with a skilled origami instructor who can guide your team through the folds via video call. Send out origami paper kits in advance to ensure everyone is ready to dive in.
Remember, this activity is not just about learning a new skill; it’s about spending time together creatively and relaxing away from the usual work tasks. It demonstrates appreciation by investing in your team's well-being and enjoyment, fostering a sense of unity and accomplishment as everyone reveals their paper masterpieces.
13. Virtual paint night
Imagine splashes of color and laughter filling your screen during a Virtual Paint Night! As a delightful break from routine, send painting kits to your team members and dive into an online painting class together. Whether they're novice painters or hidden Picassos, everyone can enjoy expressing themselves creatively. This shared artistic adventure not only fosters team bonding but also leaves each participant with a vibrant memento of appreciation they can display with pride.
14. Mocktail/cocktail crafting hour
Stir up some fun with a Mocktail/Cocktail Crafting Hour! Distribute a list of intriguing recipes ahead of time, along with a small kit of unique ingredients. As the hour unfolds, team members can mix their concoctions and share their creations via video call. This casual, lively session is perfect for unwinding and engaging in light-hearted conversations, allowing team members to toast to each other’s health and happiness.
Surf Office’s top tip
Did you know Airbnb is setting up courses now? And of course, one of them is a mixology class. Wooo!!
15. Family Fun Day
Extend your appreciation beyond your employees by hosting a virtual Family Fun Day. Organize a series of family-friendly activities and games that can be enjoyed right from home. From interactive storytelling sessions and craft corners to mini competitions and digital scavenger hunts, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. This thoughtful gesture shows that you value the support system behind each team member, enhancing a sense of community and belonging within your team.
16. Poetry reading session
Who said team meetings have to be all work and no play? Organize a poetry reading session where team members can share their favorite verses or unveil their hidden talent for writing poetry. This can be a delightful escape from the usual business discussions and a wonderful way to foster a deep connection among your team. Encourage everyone to either recite a beloved poem or share an original piece. You might discover the next poet laureate in your team, or at least get some heartfelt laughs and a deeper appreciation for your colleagues' creative sides!
17. Online cooking class
Spice things up with an online cooking class led by a professional chef! It's a tasty way to engage your team and do something fun and different. Choose a cuisine that’s popular or a dish that’s easy to make in any kitchen. Send out ingredient kits in advance if the budget allows, so everyone can cook together in real time. This activity not only teaches a new skill but also ends with a delicious meal that your team can enjoy in their own kitchens. It’s a perfect recipe for team bonding!
Surf Office’s top tip
Choose the pick of the (grape) bunch with this fantastic website! Here, you’ll find cooking course for small or large online teams
18. Virtual reality hangouts
If your budget allows, why not take team bonding to the next level with virtual reality (VR)? Equip your team with VR headsets and meet in a virtual world for meetings or just for fun. Whether it’s exploring exotic locations together, playing interactive games, or collaborating in a simulated workspace, VR hangouts can provide a unique and memorable way to engage and appreciate your team.
It's like a little futuristic getaway that keeps everyone connected and excited about working as a team together.
19. Spotify playlist exchange
How about mixing up the daily grind with a splash of music? Encourage your team to create and share their own Spotify playlists. It's like swapping mixtapes old-school style, but online! Each playlist can reveal a lot about personalities, maybe a hidden love for 80s power ballads or a penchant for indie pop.
Set up a ‘Playlist of the Month’ contest where the most quirky, heartwarming, or pump-up playlist wins a fun prize. It’s a fantastic way to tune into each other's vibes and add a personal soundtrack to your virtual office life.
20. Magic show
Ready to sprinkle some magic into your team meetings? Hire a magician to perform a virtual show that transforms your usual video call into an arena of awe and wonder. It's not just about pulling rabbits out of hats—expect mind-bending tricks that'll have everyone scratching their heads in amazement.
Keep it a secret and watch the surprise unfold, or hype up the event and see the excitement build. After the show, have a chat about who thinks they've cracked the magician's code—it's a great way to keep the fun going and connect on a whole new level.
21. Animated GIF battles
Let’s get the GIFs rolling! Launch a hilarious battle of wits with an animated GIF competition. Whether it's reacting to new updates or just saying 'good morning', challenge your team to communicate using only GIFs.
It’s a playful way to lighten up emails and chat threads while seeing who can snag the title of GIF-master with the funniest or most fitting reactions. This light-hearted battle not only brings a ton of laughs but also lets your team flex their creative muscles in the most amusing ways.
22. Virtual movie night
Roll out the virtual red carpet and host a movie night that brings the cinema experience right into your homes. Using a streaming party service, pick a film that's a crowd-pleaser or maybe something a bit off the beaten path for an adventurous night. As everyone watches together, chat features can let you share reactions in real-time—like whispering in the dark of the theater, but better because you're all typing!
Follow up with a post-movie discussion over video call to talk about your favorite scenes or unexpected plot twists. It's a perfect way to unwind and share some popcorn moments, even from afar.
23. Pet show-and-tell
Turn your next team meeting into a wildly adorable show-and-tell session with everyone’s pets. Whether they have a snoozy cat, a bubbly dog, or even a chirpy parakeet, it’s a great chance for team members to strut their pets on the virtual stage. Prepare for plenty of 'oohs' and 'ahhs' as each pet makes their debut.
It’s not only a heartwarming break from the routine but also a fantastic way to learn more about each other through the furry (or feathered) friends that your team holds dear. Plus, it’s always a hit to see which pet unexpectedly steals the spotlight!
24. Mindfulness sessions
Enhance the virtual work environment with regular mindfulness sessions tailored specifically for your remote team. Online work can sometimes blur the lines between personal and professional life, leading to increased stress. By hosting virtual mindfulness sessions via video calls, you offer your team a structured way to regroup and refocus.
These sessions, ideally led by a professional mindfulness coach, could include guided meditations, breathing techniques tailored for stress relief, and even virtual yoga to alleviate physical strain from sitting. This proactive approach to mental wellness helps remote employees maintain their mental clarity and emotional balance, fostering a supportive and thriving online workplace.
25. Science experiment hour
Dive into the fascinating world of science right from your home office. Each week, gather your team online to conduct simple, yet mind-blowing experiments—think creating volcanoes from baking soda and vinegar, or watching colors dance in milk with just a touch of dish soap.
Not only will this spark everyone's inner scientist, but it also provides a delightful break from the usual work tasks. Encourage team members to bring their kids into the action or just let their own curiosity lead the way. It’s a spectacular way to add some fizz and pop to your team’s routine!
But let's remember, it’s not 2020 again! We’re free to go outdoors!
So, why not treat your virtual team with an unforgettable team-building retreat? Get yourself outdoors! 😉
But doesn’t organizing a retreat sound ridiculously difficult? Well, you’re not wrong. That’s why Surf Office was born! We do all the hard logistics work, so you don’t have to.
Our credentials?
We've had the pleasure of organizing over 700+ retreat experiences, including for remote teams! Here’s how what we offer:
- Stress-free transfers? We got you! ✅
- Quality-assured accommodations? Check! ✅
- Engaging team-building activities? Our speciality ✅
- Restaurant reservations? That's on us! ✅
- Expert retreat planning assistance? Of course, we have this covered! ✅
- Onsite support, tailored to your needs? Absolutely ✅
Not only this but we also have access to 160+ locations around Europe, APAC, the US, Latin America and now Africa, meaning the sky is your limit when it comes to choosing the right location for you and your team.
Help your virtual staff reach their highest potential and create motivated superstar teams on a work retreat. Allow us to sort out the tricky logistics! Book now, spaces are limited!
