Virtual Staff Introduction Ideas
Help your team open up, focus, and build meaningful connections during your next virtual session with these engaging icebreakers.
Looking for a Full Virtual Team Building Experience?
You’ve come to the right place. Odyssey Teams offers impactful virtual team building programs—each with a give-back component.
Explore:
- Virtual Helping Hands
- Virtual Team Mosaic
For more info, reach out to our Director of Client Success, Kim Clary at learn@odysseyteams.com.
Icebreakers to Kick Off Your Virtual Meeting
1. Virtual Human Scavenger Hunt
A fun, interactive way to get people talking. Best played in groups of 10 or fewer.
How it works:
Create a list of 10–20 personal or team-related prompts. Each group awards points to the person who best fits each item. No winners—just connection.
Sample prompts:
- Who went furthest in competitive sports
- Who has the most sets of twins in their family
- Who’s visited the most states or countries
- How many instruments can each person play
- Total years of team tenure
This activity sparks storytelling and reveals shared experiences before diving into work.
2. Count to 20 Icebreaker
Simple in concept, powerful in practice.
Instructions:
Ask the team to count to 20, one person at a time, without overlapping. No verbal cues—just eye contact and deep listening. If two people speak at once, start over.
Why it works:
It builds focus, intentionality, and group awareness—perfect before a big decision or brainstorm.
3. Six Degrees
Inspired by Six Degrees of Separation, this game helps teammates share more of themselves.
Instructions:
Each person prepares six personal facts before the call. Examples:
- I love pickleball
- Our daughter is teething
- I laugh when nervous
- This is my first job in this role
- I’m a night owl
- My spouse just started night shifts
After each share, allow a minute or two for reactions. Then move to the next person.
4. Give Thanks
A heartfelt way to start any meeting.
Instructions:
Ask each person to share their name and two things they’re thankful for—excluding common answers like health, family, or work. Encourage specificity and vulnerability.
Why it works:
It sets a tone of gratitude and authenticity, helping team members feel seen and heard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do virtual team building activities work?
They foster connection, engagement, and trust among remote employees. Icebreakers improve communication and help new team members feel welcome.
What is virtual team building?
It’s the process of cultivating collaboration and belonging among remote teams through structured online activities.
How do you introduce new team members virtually?
Start with a welcome email, invite them to team-building activities, and assign a mentor or buddy for support.
What are common virtual team building challenges?
- Scheduling across time zones
- Ensuring internet access
- Keeping energy high and avoiding awkward silences
- Choosing the right platform
How do I know if my virtual activity was successful?
Ask for feedback via survey or conversation. Look for changes in engagement, communication, and team morale.
How do you do team building virtually?
Choose the right activity, platform, and tools. Communicate clearly and make sure everyone feels included and prepared.
If you have virtual icebreakers to share or want to learn more about Odyssey Teams’ experiences, reach out anytime at learn@odysseyteams.com. Let’s get virtual!
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