Virtual Team Building Success: The IndianOil Institute of Petroleum Management’s Cook-Off Challenge

The IndianOil Institute of Petroleum Management (IiPM) engaged FocusU to conduct a virtual Cook-Off Challenge, designed to boost team spirit and connect employees and their families amid the lockdown. This interactive experience had participants divided into five teams, tasked with preparing a complete meal, including a starter, main course, dessert, and mocktail. Family members joined the fun by photographing the cooking process and final dishes.

Over 60 minutes, teams collaborated virtually, strategizing their recipes and assisting one another. Two additional surprise recipes were assigned to each team for extra points, adding an element of unpredictability. The session ended with a debrief where participants shared their experiences, highlighting themes of teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving under ambiguity. Winners were determined through a poll based on creativity and presentation.

Participants found the experience refreshing, fostering informal connections and teamwork. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with employees appreciating the unique family-inclusive approach, which strengthened bonds and brought a lively, memorable twist to virtual team-building.