How to use instant video calls for team building and collaboration

Instant video calls have become an integral part of modern communication, allowing teams to connect and collaborate from anywhere at any time. Not only do they make it easier for remote workers to stay connected, but they can also be a powerful tool for team building and improving team dynamics.

Here are some tips for using instant video calls to build and strengthen your team:

Make it a regular part of your routine

Scheduling regular video calls can help build a sense of community and connection among team members. Consider setting up weekly or biweekly team check-ins to keep everyone in the loop and encourage open communication.

Encourage participation

Encourage team members to turn on their cameras and participate actively in the conversation. Seeing each other’s faces can help build trust and foster a sense of belonging

Use breakout rooms

If you’re using a video conferencing platform that offers breakout rooms, take advantage of this feature. It allows team members to split off into smaller groups for focused discussions or problem-solving sessions.

Play team-building games

There are a ton of online games and activities that can be adapted for virtual team building. Consider trying out virtual icebreakers, trivia quizzes, or even virtual escape rooms to encourage teamwork and build relationships.

Use screen sharing

Make use of screen-sharing features to collaborate on documents, presentations, or other projects in real time.

This can help improve efficiency and facilitate better communication among team members.

Establish ground rules

Make sure that everyone on the team knows how to use the video conferencing platform and is aware of the ground rules for video calls. For example, you may want to establish guidelines around camera usage, interruptions, and side conversations.

Keep an eye on body language

When you’re communicating through video, it’s important to pay attention to nonverbal cues such as body language and facial expressions. This can help you get a better sense of how your team members are feeling and reacting to what’s being discussed.

Use visual aids

If you’re presenting information or trying to convey a complex idea, consider using visual aids such as slides or diagrams. These can help make your message more clear and engaging for team members.

Follow up after the call

After a video call, make sure to follow up with any action items or decisions that were made. This can help keep your team on track and ensure that everyone is aligned on project goals.

Invest in the right technology

To get the most out of instant video calls, it’s important to have the right equipment and technology. Make sure that you have a reliable internet connection, good-quality microphones and cameras, and a video conferencing platform that meets the needs of your team.

Use virtual whiteboards

Some video conferencing platforms offer virtual whiteboard tools that allow teams to collaborate on ideas and brainstorm solutions in real time. This can be a great way to facilitate group problem-solving and encourage creativity.

Set up virtual office hours

If you have team members who are in different time zones or have conflicting schedules, consider setting up virtual office hours.

This allows team members to drop in and ask questions or discuss issues in a more flexible way.

Use video calls to onboard new team members

If you’re bringing on new team members, consider using instant video calls as a way to introduce them to the team and help them get up to speed. You can use the call to provide an overview of the team’s goals and projects and give new team members a chance to ask questions and get to know their colleagues.

Incorporate team-building activities

In addition to using video calls for regular meetings and project work, consider incorporating team-building activities into your video call schedule. This can be as simple as taking a few minutes at the beginning of a call to catch up and check in with each other or organizing a more structured team-building activity such as a virtual happy hour or game night.

Overall, using instant video calls for team building and collaboration can help improve communication, foster a sense of community, and encourage teamwork and problem-solving. By making them a regular part of your routine and taking advantage of all the features your video conferencing platform has to offer, you can build a stronger and more cohesive team.