International integration: How sport connects teams and builds bridges

International integration is one of the biggest challenges facing HR departments. It's not just about logistics, but about building a cohesive, global culture that supports the effectiveness and engagement of distributed teams. Traditional stationary integration methods involve high costs and an incredible amount of work in their planning. So how do you break down cultural, linguistic, and geographical barriers to strengthen the sense of belonging? And at the same time, approach it optimally in terms of time and budget?

Organizing international well-being initiatives is complex. It is particularly difficult to synchronize activities for teams operating in different time zones. Furthermore, internal communication platforms often pose a barrier due to a lack of multilingualism. In the face of these challenges, modern HR departments are looking for solutions that are scalable, inclusive, and culturally neutral.

How can you achieve international integration with Activy?

It is often said that sport, like music, soothes the soul. It is worth utilizing this aspect in your EB or HR strategy. The Activy program supports HR in organizing integration on a European or global scale:

• Overcoming language barriers: The Activy application is multilingual, meaning every employee can use the app in their preferred language. This eliminates a barrier often associated with other internal platforms, ensuring full inclusivity and immediate understanding of competition rules, and enabling all employees to engage.
• Time zone management: The challenge is asynchronous and scalable. Participants record their activity when it is convenient for them, regardless of the time zone. The total team score is what matters, which eliminates the need to synchronize work and private life. There is no need to be in a specific place at a designated time – complete flexibility is convenient for participants.
• Building teams and relationships: Employees from different countries and departments connect in virtual teams to jointly collect points for activity. This gamification creates informal bonds across borders, effectively breaking down hierarchies and silos.
• You can combine the sports action with country rankings, local charity goals, or dedicated event souvenirs personalized according to location.

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Key to Success: Professional Promotion and Regional Support

The success of international integration depends not only on the tool but also on its implementation. Activy supports companies through consultation, providing a promotional package in many languages – ready-made graphics, posters, and email templates, and a program website. A key element is also regional ambassadors, designated in each country or branch. A good practice is to introduce regular "briefings" with these individuals, ensuring that the culture and communication are adapted to local realities, which guarantees a high level of engagement.

Evidence of Effectiveness: International Case Studies

Activy's effectiveness in international integration has been proven by global companies:

• Raben Group used Activy for its "Raben Sport Challenge" across Europe to show that employees from different companies form one community. Read more about sports challenges for employees.
• HENNLICH, operating in a dozen countries, strengthened international integration and sense of community by connecting teams from different countries in virtual challenges. See the HENNLICH Case Study.

• Panattoni conducted a worldwide challenge, engaging employees on various continents, which helped build a sense of global unity and promote health. See the Panattoni Case Study.
• InPost used Activy for a large event with elements of the Tour de France competition in the app, promoting health and the brand.

The Future of International Integration

International integration no longer has to be synonymous with expensive travel and complicated logistics. Thanks to modern digital tools, such as Activy, HR departments can meet the complex challenges of distributed teams. Multilingualism, adaptation to time zones, and professional support from regional ambassadors make this program an ideal, scalable solution. By investing in shared, sports challenges, companies not only improve international well-being but, above all, build a cohesive, motivated, and effective global organization.

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