In our recent commitment of "IRL over URL" that we announced in a newsletter, where we talked about the undeniable power of face-to-face connection, we used this mantra as a deeper commitment to create more intentional in-person gatherings, not only for our own team but for the hospitality communities we love working with. And so, we recently organized a team-building day at NeueHouse NYC—a space that felt like the perfect extension of our ethos, offering both inspiration and the sense of community we crave.
Our interactive team day was dedicated to adopting this IRL over URL mantra, and we focused on things that our community typically experiences too. These exercises may be valuable to you.
How Hybrid Teams Strengthen Collaboration by Meeting IRL
In today’s evolving work landscape, hybrid teams are becoming increasingly common, blending the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of in-person collaboration. While remote work offers numerous advantages, such as flexibility and reduced commuting time, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and hinder spontaneous interactions. By prioritizing in-person meetings, companies can foster stronger relationships, enhance communication, and boost team morale. Here are some tips for mitigating the downsides of remote work and maximizing the benefits of hybrid collaboration:
Schedule Regular In-Person Meetings: Create opportunities for team members to connect face-to-face, whether through weekly check-ins or monthly team-building events.
Encourage Open & Honest Communication: Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, both virtually and in person.
Schedule Collaboration Days: Set specific days for team members to work together in the office, promoting a culture of collaboration and engagement.
Utilize Technology Effectively: Leverage collaboration tools to keep everyone connected, ensuring that remote team members feel included during in-person gatherings.
Create an Office Your Team Actually Wants to Visit: Design spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration, making the office a place where employees want to gather.
Solicit Feedback: Regularly ask team members for their input on hybrid work practices and adjust accordingly to meet their needs and preferences.
By implementing these strategies, companies can enhance collaboration and create a more cohesive team dynamic, ultimately leading to greater success.
What Really Builds Empathy Among a Team?
Empathy is essential for fostering a supportive and collaborative team environment. One effective way to cultivate empathy among team members is through the "Wheel of Life" exercise. For our in-person day, after the practical stuff was out of the way, we dove into this because it’s one of those deceptively simple activities: rate your satisfaction in different areas of life—work, health, social, and so on. But here’s where it gets real. This tool encourages individuals to reflect on various aspects of their lives, helping them gain insights into their colleagues’ experiences and perspectives. Here are some tips for implementing the Wheel of Life exercise to strengthen empathy within your team:
Facilitate a Group Session: Gather your team for a dedicated workshop where everyone can share their Wheel of Life reflections in a safe and supportive environment.
Encourage Honesty and Vulnerability: Create an atmosphere where team members feel comfortable sharing personal insights, emphasizing that vulnerability fosters deeper connections.
Promote Active Listening: Encourage team members to listen attentively to each other’s stories, asking questions to deepen their understanding and show genuine interest.
Follow Up with Action: After the exercise, discuss ways the team can support each other based on the insights shared, fostering a culture of empathy and collaboration.
By using the Wheel of Life exercise, teams can create a deeper understanding of one another, ultimately enhancing collaboration and empathy in the workplace. Follow these instructions and feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about how to facilitate it!
Why the Space You Work In Matters More Than You Think
NeueHouse itself deserves a moment here. We’ve worked out of many places, but there’s something special about this one. The design, the flow, the energy—it all plays a part. From the Gallery Bar where we had lunch (and later happy hour, thanks to Selma, their Director of Food & Beverage, for making it seamless) to the 12th floor with its sweeping city views, every corner of the space felt designed to inspire. Physical space matters, more than we often give it credit for. It affects how you feel, how you work, and how you connect with the people around you.
We ended our day with a FIELD TRIP visit to Fotografiska, a few blocks away, where we saw the Vivian Maier exhibit. Let me tell you, nothing sparks conversation like stepping into a different world for an hour. That walk back to NeueHouse was buzzing with ideas, and it just reinforced the fact that creativity needs air to breathe—sometimes you have to leave the office (or home office) to get it.
This day reminded us that hybrid work is about finding the right balance for your team. Strategic meetings, personal reflections, or casual drinks—all these moments strengthen connections and improve how we work. The key takeaway: be intentional with your time together. In-person moments, from team-building to wellness, can transform your team's dynamic, no matter where they work.
