The Benefits Of Team Quizzes For Creative Thinking.

Whilst most of us have adapted to the ‘new normal’ and have got into the groove of the working from home set-up, one thing I’ve found that has helped keep us sane in these strange times is our morning quiz. 

The biggest challenge I’ve found when working from home is maintaining a relationship with my co-workers virtually. According to research, one in three of us miss our ‘work spouse’ – the person we’re closest to in the office – more than we do our actual partners.

Whilst the team has WhatsApp chats and regular video calls throughout the day, nothing quite compares to a catch up in person during the office tea round. Taking five minutes away from your screen to gather your thoughts is good for the soul and leaves you feeling refreshed. However, with the lack of face-to-face time, I’ve found that introducing a daily quick-fire quiz has helped fill that void. 

We’ve had quizzes on all matter of subjects; from Latin, geography, picture rounds and even celebrity face mash-ups. On the surface, these quizzes test our knowledge and give us a short break to catch up as a team. It also allows space to think about other things aside from work. During lockdown, I don’t think I’m alone when I say that it’s been difficult to ‘switch off’ and separate home and work life. The daily quiz gives the team a moment to breathe and relax.

One surprising benefit of testing the team’s know-how on a variety of themes has been the creative thinking aspect. Each day a colleague has to come up with an idea, write the questions and host. There’s a friendly competition between us – who can think up the most unique quiz. As a result, it has challenged our lateral thinking, channelled our creativity and has improved our problem-solving skills. These are all attributes needed in PR and are often honed in brainstorming sessions or discussions in the office. However, in the absence of being psychically together, we’ve found quizzes are the ideal way to refine these key traits, whilst of course having fun along the way. It’s a win-win situation!

I recommend anyone who is missing in-person interactions with their colleagues to host a daily quiz and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the added benefits it brings to the whole team.

#WorkingAtHome #RemoteWorking #TeamMorale #CreativeThinking