Here's how you can promote belonging and team cohesion in remote teams as a team facilitator.

1 Virtual Icebreakers

Virtual icebreakers are a fantastic way to kick off meetings and help remote team members warm up to each other. As a facilitator, you can choose activities that encourage personal sharing and laughter, which can break down barriers and foster a sense of unity. Whether it's sharing a fun fact or playing a quick game, these icebreakers can help create a more relaxed and open atmosphere where team members feel comfortable engaging with one another.

2 Regular Check-ins

Holding regular check-ins is vital for maintaining team cohesion in a remote setting. These can be one-on-one or group sessions where you discuss not only work-related topics but also personal updates and well-being. This practice helps team members feel heard and supported, reinforcing their connection to the team. It's also an opportunity for you to gauge the team's morale and address any issues that might be affecting their sense of belonging.

3 Shared Goals

Establishing clear, shared goals is key to promoting team cohesion. When remote team members understand how their individual efforts contribute to the bigger picture, they're more likely to feel a sense of belonging and commitment. As a facilitator, ensure these goals are communicated effectively and that everyone is aligned on the team's objectives and expectations.

4 Inclusive Communication

Inclusive communication is essential in a remote team environment. It means ensuring that all team members, regardless of their location or time zone, have equal access to information and opportunities to contribute. As a facilitator, you should use various communication tools and strategies to accommodate different preferences and ensure that no one feels left out or marginalized.

5 Team Rituals

Creating team rituals can provide a sense of stability and community for remote teams. These can range from virtual coffee breaks to celebrating milestones together online. As a facilitator, encourage the development of these rituals to help build a shared team identity and culture, which is especially important when members are geographically dispersed.

6 Empathy Building

To promote belonging and cohesion, it's important to foster empathy within the team. Encourage members to share their experiences and perspectives, and actively listen to one another. This understanding can lead to stronger bonds and a more cohesive team. As a facilitator, model empathetic behavior and facilitate exercises that help team members walk in each other's shoes, virtually speaking.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?