We all know that meaningful connection is the backbone of strong teams—but with packed schedules, remote work, and constant change, it’s easy for connection to slip down the priority list. The good news? It doesn’t take a full-day retreat to make a big difference. Sometimes, a well-timed 15-minute activity is all it takes to shift the energy and build trust.
Here are five quick, effective ways to bring your team closer—whether you’re in-person, hybrid, or fully remote. These are low-lift, high-impact boosters you can plug into any meeting or moment of transition.
- One-Word Check-In
Start your meeting with each person sharing one word to describe how they’re feeling in the moment. This quick pulse check invites vulnerability, builds empathy, and helps everyone tune in to the emotional temperature of the group.
Pro Tip: Add a follow-up question like, “What do you need from the team today?” for a deeper layer of connection.
- Highlight Reel
Ask each team member to share a recent personal or professional win. These small celebrations reinforce positivity, build momentum, and help individuals feel seen. It’s a great way to remind everyone of the good stuff that’s still happening, even in busy or uncertain times.
- Gratitude Circle
Take two minutes to invite shoutouts—team members can recognize a colleague they appreciate and share why. It may seem simple, but expressing appreciation out loud can instantly boost morale and strengthen team cohesion.
Virtual version: Have everyone type their shoutouts into the chat at once for a “gratitude flood.”
- Connection Question
Pose one playful or thoughtful question to open a meeting or transition between topics. This is a low-pressure way to learn more about each other and deepen relationships across roles or departments.
Try questions like:
- What’s something you loved doing as a kid?
- What’s a skill you’d love to master?
- What does your ideal workday look like?
- Emoji Forecast
Have each person drop an emoji (or two) in the chat or on a virtual sticky note to show how they’re feeling—or what they’re hoping for this week. It’s a playful and visual way to surface emotion and open the door for meaningful conversations.
This little opening activity matters.
Connection isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. When people feel psychologically safe, seen, and appreciated, they work better together. They communicate more clearly, collaborate more easily, and handle challenges with greater resilience.
These five micro-practices are just a starting point. They may seem small, but they help shape a culture where people feel they belong—and that drives everything from performance to retention.
Want more ways to build strong, connected teams?
Let’s talk. I help leaders and teams use meaningful play, facilitation, and strategy to create work cultures that work for people.
Marcy Fortnow, Engaging Play
marcy@engagingplay.com | www.engagingplay.com
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