Meeting Activities: Energize Your Team with Fun, Connection, and Results

In today’s fast-paced, hybrid work world, meeting activities have become the secret ingredient for successful teams. Whether you’re gathering in person or logging in from across the globe, the right mix of icebreakers, 5 minute games for virtual meetings, and team-building exercises can transform your meetings from routine to remarkable.

Why Meeting Activities Matter

Research shows that over 70% of organizations now use icebreakers and short games in virtual meetings, resulting in up to a 25% increase in engagement. For remote workers, 86% say regular icebreakers make them feel more connected to their colleagues. These numbers aren’t just impressive — they’re a testament to the power of purposeful play.

At UP Events, we’ve seen firsthand how meeting activities — whether quick virtual ice breakers or immersive team challenges — spark creativity, boost morale, and foster genuine connections. Our mission is to help you create experiences that are not only fun but also meaningful and impactful.

The Science Behind Fun: How Activities Drive Engagement

Short, interactive activities do more than break the ice — they lower social barriers, encourage participation, and set a positive tone for the rest of the meeting. According to organizational psychologist Dr. Emily Tran, “The best icebreakers are those that feel authentic and relevant to the team’s culture. Avoid anything that feels forced or overly personal.”

Team engagement consultant Mark Jansen adds, “Short, high-energy activities at the start of a meeting can increase alertness and set a collaborative tone for the rest of the session.” This is why we recommend incorporating fun activities for online meetings and in-person gatherings alike.

Top Meeting Activities for Every Setting

1. 5 Minute Games for Virtual Meetings

• Two Truths and a Lie: Each participant shares two truths and one lie; the group guesses which is the lie. It’s quick, lighthearted, and perfect for building rapport.
• Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Ask team members to find and show an item in their workspace that fits a theme. This gets everyone moving and laughing.
• Zoom Icebreaker Questions: Pose a fun or thought-provoking question to the group. Try, “What’s your go-to productivity hack?” or “If you could have any superpower, what would it be?”

Explore more ideas on our activities page.

2. Icebreakers for Adults

• Show & Tell: Invite participants to share a personal item and its story. This fosters deeper connections and empathy.
• Online Pictionary: Use a virtual whiteboard for a quick drawing and guessing game. It’s a creative way to energize the group.
• Virtual Coffee Chat: Break into small groups for informal conversation. This is especially effective for larger teams.

Find more ice breaker ideas and workshops to suit any group.

3. Team Meeting Ideas for In-Person and Hybrid Teams

• Expedition Robinson Team Challenge: Inspired by survival games, this activity builds teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Outdoor City Games: Explore Amsterdam or Weesp with interactive challenges that blend fun and local culture.
• Cocktail Workshops & BBQ Parties: Combine learning, creativity, and relaxation for a memorable team outing.

Discover our full range of corporate events and outings in Amsterdam or Weesp.

Innovations and Trends in Meeting Activities

The landscape of meeting activities is evolving rapidly:

• Gamified platforms now automate icebreakers and track participation, making it easier to engage large or distributed teams.
• Themed scavenger hunts — such as sustainability or diversity — align activities with your company’s values.
• AI-powered icebreaker generators can tailor questions to your team’s interests, ensuring relevance and inclusivity.

Hybrid team-building is also on the rise, blending in-person and virtual experiences to accommodate flexible work arrangements. Many organizations are integrating mindfulness and well-being exercises into meeting openers, reflecting a growing focus on mental health.

For more on the latest trends, check out resources like Harvard Business Review, MindTools, and Society for Human Resource Management.

Best Practices for Effective Meeting Activities

Drawing from expert advice and our 15+ years of experience, here’s how to get the most out of your meeting activities:

• Match the activity to your group size and meeting purpose. Small groups thrive on personal sharing, while larger groups benefit from quick, game-based activities.
• Rotate activities to keep things fresh and engaging.
• Prioritize inclusivity. Choose activities that are accessible and comfortable for everyone.
• Set clear expectations. Explain the purpose and rules to ensure everyone feels at ease.
• Leverage technology. Use virtual tools and gamification to streamline activities and boost participation.

Regulations and Guidelines in the Netherlands

When organizing corporate events or team-building activities in the Netherlands, it’s important to:

• Comply with the Dutch Working Conditions Act (Arbowet), which emphasizes employee well-being and psychological safety.
• Adhere to GDPR regulations when handling personal data.
• Foster inclusivity and respect for diversity, avoiding activities that could be perceived as discriminatory or invasive.

At UP Events, we ensure all our events and activities meet these standards, providing a safe, welcoming environment for every participant. Learn more about our event agency in Amsterdam.

Success Stories: Creating Connections That Last

Our clients consistently report higher engagement, improved collaboration, and lasting memories after participating in our meeting activities. With a 4.8 Google review score from over 2,600 customers, our commitment to quality, creativity, and connection speaks for itself.

Whether you’re planning a corporate outing, product launch, or school event, we offer fully customizable experiences — from team-building to school activities and even bachelor parties.

Ready to Transform Your Next Meeting?

Let us help you design an event that inspires, connects, and delivers results. Book your next experience at our Amsterdam West or Weesp locations, or request a personalized quote to get started.

FAQ: Meeting Activities

What are the best 5 minute games for virtual meetings? Popular options include Two Truths and a Lie, virtual scavenger hunts, and quick icebreaker questions. These games are easy to set up and keep energy high.

How do I choose the right icebreakers for adults? Focus on activities that are authentic, relevant, and comfortable for your group. Avoid anything too personal or forced.

Are virtual ice breakers effective for team building? Absolutely! Virtual ice breakers for work help remote teams feel connected, reduce isolation, and foster collaboration.

What regulations should I consider when organizing corporate events in the Netherlands? Ensure compliance with the Dutch Working Conditions Act and GDPR, and prioritize inclusivity and psychological safety.

Can UP Events customize activities for my team? Yes! All our events can be tailored to your specific needs, including activities, catering, decorations, and entertainment.

For more inspiration and practical tips, visit our meeting activities page or explore our full range of activities.

Additional Resources

• Harvard Business Review: Building Rapport Remotely
• MindTools: Ice Breakers
• Society for Human Resource Management: Team Building
• Forbes: Virtual Team Building Activities

Let’s make your next meeting unforgettable — because at UP Events, we believe every gathering is an opportunity to connect, create, and celebrate!