1 Choose the right platform

The first step to engaging your remote or hybrid team in meetings is to choose the right platform for your needs. There are many options available, such as Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or Slack, that offer different features and functionalities. You should consider factors such as the size of your team, the purpose of your meeting, the level of interactivity required, and the security and reliability of the platform. You should also make sure that everyone has access to the platform and knows how to use it effectively.

2 Set clear expectations and agendas

Another way to create a sense of belonging and trust among your team is to set clear expectations and agendas for your meetings. You should communicate the goals, topics, and outcomes of your meetings in advance, and provide any relevant materials or resources. You should also assign roles and responsibilities to your team members, such as facilitator, note-taker, time-keeper, or presenter. This will help them prepare and participate actively in the meeting, and avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

3 Encourage participation and feedback

One of the biggest challenges of remote or hybrid meetings is to keep your team members engaged and attentive. You can overcome this by encouraging participation and feedback from everyone. You can use various techniques, such as icebreakers, polls, quizzes, breakout rooms, or chat functions, to stimulate discussion and interaction. You can also ask open-ended questions, acknowledge contributions, and solicit opinions and suggestions. You should also provide constructive and timely feedback to your team members, and recognize their achievements and efforts.

4 Build rapport and connection

Another important aspect of creating a sense of belonging and trust among your team is to build rapport and connection. You can do this by showing interest and empathy for your team members, and learning more about their backgrounds, preferences, and challenges. You can also create opportunities for informal and social interactions, such as virtual coffee breaks, happy hours, or games. You should also celebrate milestones, birthdays, or anniversaries, and share personal stories or experiences.

5 Respect diversity and inclusion

A remote or hybrid team may consist of people from different cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and preferences. You should respect and value this diversity and inclusion, and create a safe and supportive environment for your team. You should avoid making assumptions, stereotypes, or judgments about your team members, and instead listen and learn from them. You should also accommodate their needs and preferences, such as time zones, languages, or accessibility. You should also promote a culture of openness, respect, and collaboration among your team.

6 Follow up and follow through

The last tip to create a sense of belonging and trust among your team is to follow up and follow through after your meetings. You should summarize the main points and action items of your meetings, and share them with your team. You should also check in with your team members regularly, and provide support and guidance as needed. You should also monitor the progress and outcomes of your meetings, and hold yourself and your team accountable for the results. You should also solicit feedback and suggestions for improvement, and implement them accordingly.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?