It’s 7 a.m. Eastern time, and I’m dressed in my best, ready to host a virtual ballroom extravaganza: no coffee, no alcohol, just a green bottle of San Pelligrino sparkling water for me. I’m about to dance and laugh with hundreds of employees across the Philippines. No, this isn’t an elaborate daydream. It’s our annual HireSmart Christmas party! 

Every year, we throw a virtual bash that bridges the 13-hour time difference between us and our amazing Filipino Virtual Employees (VEs). It’s a highlight for me, and I hope, for them too. I put on my dancing shoes, turn up the energy, and play the role of virtual ballroom host. It’s a big deal for our VEs, and I make sure they feel the excitement from the moment they log on.  

Why do we do this? Because celebrating wins and building connections are crucial, especially with a remote team. When done right, these events can boost morale, strengthen relationships, and remind everyone they’re part of something bigger. 

But how do you throw a party with a team spread across different time zones? Here are five tips I’ve learned from our experiences: 

1. Bring Your A-Game: Dress up and show up with high energy. Your enthusiasm sets the tone. I treat this like I’m hosting a gala event, because for our VEs, that’s exactly what it is. When they see me dressed up and ready to celebrate, it signals that this is a special occasion worth their excitement.

2. Mix Fun and Recognition: Balance entertainment with meaningful recognition. We hire entertainers like magicians to keep things lively, but the heart of our event is the awards ceremony. We present our “Top VE” and “Top Newbie VE” awards, along with seven “SMARTER” core value awards that align with our company values. The winners receive prizes, including new laptops for our top performers.

3. Create Opportunities for Connection: Use breakout rooms or chat features to allow team members to mingle. We set up virtual rooms where VEs can chat in smaller groups, mimicking the social aspect of an in-person event. 

4. Share Client Appreciation: Nothing boosts morale like hearing how much clients value your work. During the party, we read comments from clients about their VEs. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact our team makes every day.

5. Keep the Energy High: As the host, it’s your job to maintain the festive atmosphere. I dance, I cheer, and I keep the conversation flowing. This high-energy approach helps bridge the digital divide and makes the event feel more like a real party.

The goal isn’t to replicate an in-person party exactly. It’s about creating a meaningful experience that makes your remote team feel valued and connected. 

Bloom Where You Work: the Importance of Fun in the Office

These celebrations do more than just boost morale. They’re an investment in your team’s cohesion and motivation. When employees feel appreciated and part of a community, they’re more likely to go the extra mile in their work. 

At HireSmart, we’ve seen how these efforts pay off. Our VEs consistently exceed expectations, often taking on additional responsibilities with enthusiasm. 

“Ghie is truly a rockstar,” one client told us about their VE. “She started working with me to get control of my email… We are now at a point where I spend less than an hour per day on email, and often much less time — this has changed my life.” 

This kind of dedication doesn’t come from nowhere. It’s nurtured through consistent appreciation and a strong sense of belonging. 

But here’s the thing: throwing a great virtual party is just one piece of the puzzle. The real challenge is finding and retaining top-notch remote talent in the first place. 

Want a Happier Office? Here’s How to Have Some Fun 

That’s where HireSmart comes in. We don’t just connect you with VEs; we create an environment where they can thrive. From rigorous vetting to ongoing support, we ensure your VEs have everything they need to excel. 

Our VEs receive health benefits, educational scholarships for their children, and ongoing professional development opportunities. This comprehensive support system allows them to focus entirely on delivering exceptional work for you. 

When you partner with HireSmart, you’re not just getting an employee. You’re tapping into a community of motivated, skilled professionals eager to contribute to your success. 

You also get a partner beyond the hiring process. With HireSmart, you receive evaluation tools, including daily reports and performance review templates. You get assistance creating your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and metrics tailored to your business needs. 

47 Tasks a Virtual Employee Can do for Your Business 

Ready to build a remote team that feels truly connected to your business? Click here to schedule a consultation. Let’s discuss how HireSmart can help you find the right VEs and create a culture of celebration and appreciation, no matter the distance.