You've just welcomed a new team member virtually. How do you establish a strong connection from afar?
When welcoming a new team member virtually, fostering a strong connection can be challenging but crucial for team cohesion. Here's how to make it happen:
How do you build connections with remote colleagues? Share your tips.
You've just welcomed a new team member virtually. How do you establish a strong connection from afar?
When welcoming a new team member virtually, fostering a strong connection can be challenging but crucial for team cohesion. Here's how to make it happen:
How do you build connections with remote colleagues? Share your tips.
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I’ve done this many times - I use Amazon to send a welcome gift that represents the company delivered to them a couple of days before or when they join that I know they’ll like! Works like a charm and is a good way to kick off a welcome
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Since we’re all working virtually, I like to create a warm and inviting space where everyone can communicate easily. I kick things off with a friendly welcome message to make sure new team members feel valued and heard right from the start. I want them to know I'm always here for a quick chat, whether it’s about work or just to see how they’re doing. I also love sharing a bit about our team, just share some quirky things about team members, (PLEASE DON'T FORCE IT, LET IT FLOW NATURALLY). If possible, I like to create a small welcome package with a gift card. Most importantly, I encourage them to ask questions, share their ideas, and feel free to speak up. My goal is to ensure that from day one, they feel like a valued part of our team!
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In my last job, how they welcomed me virtually stood out. Even before my first day, they kept me in the loop while finishing my notice period, creating an onboarding WhatsApp group almost a month in advance. They shared success stories, life-changing events, and milestones of employees, which made me feel genuinely excited to join. It wasn’t just about logistics—they shared the team’s happiness and culture, making me feel like I was already part of something meaningful. That early connection made my virtual onboarding much more personal and impactful.
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Welcoming a new team member remotely during the COVID days was a first for us, and we wanted to make it special! 🎉 To help them feel part of the team, we sent a personalized company merch kit 🖊️📔☕—including a bottle, diary, pen, mouse pad, and coffee mug. We also introduced regular agile meetings, reserving the last 10 minutes for casual chit-chat. These lighthearted moments bridged the distance, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. 🌟 Even from afar, thoughtful gestures and consistent communication can make a big difference in making someone feel truly welcomed. 💼✨ #RemoteWork #TeamBuilding #VirtualOnboarding
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My own personal “welcome to the team” is a short, warm and welcoming video message. They are able to see my personality in a non-work related virtual setting. They get a feel for who I am, hear my voice and accent and I tell one or two things about me that I know will help them in their interactions with me when we work together.
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Regular check-ins are good, but you should also engage members of your leadership team and teachers (within that department and others) to touch base, say 'Hi', introduce yourself, and chat. If they are a new team member, the CV and business end of things are already button-holed, so focus on their life away from school insofar as to what their interests are and what the school/area/city can offer the new incoming staff member and family before their arrival.
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Every employee I have is remote, and I have found that building a strong connection with a remote employee takes time and yes, it takes effort. Yes, I send gifts, do regular weekly and monthly check-ins, and just pull them aside to see how their day is going. But, I have found it’s not just about talking, it’s about transparent communication. I make sure I learn about their interests, share personal stories, talk about whatever is on their mind, and celebrate their quick and unique accomplishments to gain valuable insight about them and help establish trust. Another thing I have found is to be patient yet persistent, and you'll be rewarded with a loyal and productive team member.
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Here are some strategies: 1. Personalized Welcome 2. Clear Expectations 3. Regular Check-ins 4. Encourage Social Interaction 5. Foster Open Communication 6. Provide Resources and Onboarding materials needed to succeed in their role 7. Promote Colloboration 8. Celebrate Milestones By combining regular communication, empathy, and opportunities for connection, you can foster a strong and supportive relationship with a new team member from a distance :)
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One thing I've seen helpful is to invite them to a company or department meeting. Present them to the team and allow them a few minutes to introduce themselves. Have the other members ask questions to the new member. This opens up the space to get to know them a bit better, allow them to meet and greet the team, and begin to build some nice relationships with their peers. What I find surprising, is that there are a lot of companies that do not put this to practice, not even a company-wide welcome message. Unless they are a high ranked member.
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My Top 6 Tips: 1. Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Use Zoom or Microsoft Teams for weekly one-on-ones to encourage open communication. 2. Engage in Virtual Team Activities: Organize fun activities like virtual escape rooms or quizzes on Kahoot! to build camaraderie. 3. Utilize AI Tools for Personalization: Implement AI-driven tools like Crystal to tailor messages based on team members’ personalities. 4. Encourage Informal Interactions: Set up virtual coffee breaks or casual chats for personal connections. 5. Leverage Automation for Efficiency: Use Slackbot for reminders and updates, keeping everyone informed. 6. Celebrate Achievements Publicly: Recognize accomplishments in meetings or newsletters to boost morale and belonging.
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