Buildkite’s Remote Connection-Building Strategy: Snorkeling, Games, and Trust

Tech company Buildkite is revolutionizing the way remote teams connect and build trust through the power of games and fun activities. With a fully remote workforce, Buildkite’s founder and CEO, Keith Pitt, emphasizes the importance of fostering camaraderie among employees, even if they are miles apart.

At Buildkite, team-building activities go beyond the typical office retreat. The company’s all-employee gatherings include exciting adventures like snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef and games like cornhole and shoe toss. These activities are designed to create new networks and pathways for employees to connect with one another in a fun and relaxed environment.

Unlike many companies opting for a hybrid work setup, Pitt believes that a fully remote approach is more effective in building trust and collaboration among team members. He views hybrid setups as a “scheduling and policy nightmare,” where remote workers often feel like second-class citizens in meetings.

To further strengthen connections among employees, Buildkite allocates a portion of its budget to “connection budgets,” which fund annual gatherings and smaller trips throughout the year. The company also organizes virtual activities like puzzles, quizzes, and cooking events to foster a sense of community among remote workers.

Despite the distance, Buildkite ensures that employees have well-equipped home offices and encourages them to personalize their workspace for optimal productivity. By prioritizing trust and connection, Pitt believes that remote teams can achieve great success and innovation, regardless of their physical location.

As Buildkite continues to grow and hire new talent, the company remains committed to its remote work model and the belief that trust is the key to unlocking creativity and collaboration among employees. With a focus on building strong relationships and a shared mission, Buildkite is paving the way for a new era of remote work culture.