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Katie Capozzi
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April 2nd, 2020
Fun Company Initiatives To Do During COVID-19

2020 has been off to a stressful start with COVID-19 disrupting the world. Companies have been forced to transition their employees to Work From Home (WFH). Although WFH has been a concept more and more companies have been getting on-board with over the years, it can be difficult especially when self-isolating.

To combat these lonely and stressful times, we have come up with a list of fun company initiatives to help support employees and keep comradery high during COVID-19.

Here are a few examples of some fun activities to do while social distancing:

1. Organize A Pet Meet & Greet

One of the highlights of WFH is having pets make appearances during video calls. So why not host a pet Meet & Greet via Zoom! Set a date and time where everyone from the company (that wants to participate) can introduce their pets and meet others.

2. Virtual Lunch & Learns
Get to know your coworkers and what they are passionate about by hosting Lunch & Learns. Have 3 people present 10 minute presentations on topics they are interested in (either company related or personal). If your budget permits, offer a credit for lunch via a meal delivery service such as UberEats, DoorDash or Foodora.

3. Create Branded Sweatsuits

Comfort is key when working from home. Matching head-to-toe sweatsuits are very trendy right now so why not make them company branded to up the comradery. Who knows, maybe it will improve productivity levels when everyone is feeling relaxed and comfortable in their company sweat suit!

4. Facilitate An Online Game Night

Having a laugh and doing an activity is a great way to de-stress and take your mind off these difficult times. Hosting a virtual games night is a great option! There are tons of fun virtual game options that you can play with your coworkers. Including:



5. Dress Up During Team Meetings

Spice things up on your video calls by having dress up days where employees wear costumes (perhaps old Halloween costumes or have a formal) for meetings. It’s a fun way to bring some laughter and joy to your meetings.

6. Lunch Time Trivia
One of the keys for successful WFM transitions is ensuring that you’re taking breaks throughout the day like you would in the office. Lunch Time Trivia is a great way to regroup, have a laugh and challenge the mind. Whether it’s trivia about your company, industry or a fun topic - employees will love this. Trivia Theme Ideas: 90’s Music The Office Pop Culture Blockbuster Movies Geography Friends Legendary Athletes Tiger King

7. Host A Virtual Happy Hour

Friday Happy Hours can be a great way for coworkers to relax and enjoy each other's company after a stressful week. Luckily, you can still do that with a virtual happy hour!

8. Host A Movie Night

Looking for a more low-key activity? Hosting a Virtual Movie Night is perfect. Netflix Party (a chrome extension) is a great option as it allows everyone’s movies to be synced and when one screen pauses - all screens pause. It also has a chat function which allows you to discuss the movie as you’re watching.

9. Create An Online Book Club

Screen times have significantly increased during this time. One way to help reduce that screen time for employees is to hold each other accountable with an online book club. Choose a book, set a timeline and a date when you can host a virtual meeting to discuss the book (and maybe enjoy a glass of one or two).

HR aren’t the only people that can set up these initiatives. You can set up these initiatives with your department or company wide. Coming together and supporting your coworkers has never been more important, so remember to share a laugh and enjoy each other's company, virtually.

Stay healthy!

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