Using Virtual Events to Connect Your Global Team

Doesn’t it feel like the world has suddenly become much smaller? Not physically, of course – but thanks to rapid advances in technology, it certainly feels that way.

Much of this shift was accelerated by the pandemic. While it brought significant challenges, it also transformed how we work. Hybrid and remote working are now the norm, and businesses are no longer limited by geography. Today, as long as someone has a laptop and a reliable internet connection, they can be part of your team – wherever they are in the world.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of building a global team, and how virtual events can help strengthen collaboration, connection and culture across borders.

The Benefits of a Global Team

One of the most obvious advantages of a global team is access to a vast talent pool. In fact, it’s no longer vast – it’s almost limitless. Businesses can recruit the very best people, regardless of location.

A global workforce also brings diverse perspectives and fresh ways of thinking. Different cultural backgrounds, experiences and viewpoints encourage creativity and innovation – often uncovering ideas that a more homogenous team might miss.

This diversity naturally fosters a more inclusive and respectful workplace, helping organisations become more open-minded and globally aware. It strengthens company culture and reflects the world your business operates in.

Another major advantage is time zone coverage. While one part of the team finishes for the day, another may be just starting – enabling faster project turnaround times and improved customer service. In many ways, your business never sleeps.

The Challenges – and How Virtual Events Help

Of course, global teams aren’t without their challenges. Distance can make it harder to build trust, collaborate effectively and create a sense of belonging – especially when colleagues have never met in person.

In fact, 86% of employees and executives cite lack of collaboration or ineffective communication as a key cause of workplace failure.

This is where virtual events make a real difference.

Virtual events provide a structured, engaging way to bring people together online – helping teams bond, collaborate and connect in ways that go far beyond everyday work meetings.

Why Virtual Events Work

They Improve Collaboration

Virtual team events allow colleagues to get to know each other as people – not just names on a screen. Teams gain insight into each other’s personalities, strengths and working styles, making collaboration smoother and more effective.

Despite common misconceptions, remote teams can perform exceptionally well. Research shows that:

• 75% of virtual teams say remote collaboration has made them more effective

• Virtual team-building activities lead to 41% lower absenteeism and 21% higher profitability

They Boost Morale

Spending all day communicating through emails and messages can be draining. Virtual events break up the routine, inject fun into the workday and help prevent burnout. Even informal online catch-ups can significantly lift team morale.

They Reduce Isolation

Remote workers can sometimes feel disconnected or overlooked, which impacts motivation and productivity. Regular virtual events help employees feel seen, valued and part of something bigger – bringing teams back together despite physical distance.

They Encourage Open Communication

For many people, being at home creates a sense of safety and comfort. This can lead to more open, honest conversations – something employees increasingly value. In fact, 99% of people want to work for organisations that encourage honest communication.

They Break Down Borders

In the past, teams in different countries often operated in silos. Today, virtual events make it easy to create a shared experience across regions – strengthening unity between offices and helping teams feel truly connected.

They’re Cost-Effective and Flexible

Virtual events eliminate the need for venue hire, catering and travel – saving both time and money. They’re also incredibly flexible. From quizzes and games to speakers and interactive challenges, the only limit is your imagination.

Bringing It All Together

If hosting a virtual event sounds like a smart idea – that’s because it is.

Whether it’s a casual game night, a competitive quiz or something completely different, virtual events help global teams feel connected, motivated and aligned.

If you’re looking for inspiration, Big Smoke Events offers a range of high-energy virtual experiences. From our Virtual Scavenger Hunt, where teams compete to complete creative challenges, to our Virtual Horse Racing, which brings all the excitement of the track straight to your screen – we know how to create memorable moments online.

We’ve worked with some of the world’s biggest brands to connect global teams – and we’d love to help you do the same.

Get in touch today to find out how virtual events can bring your team closer together.