Jeff, Manager at MINDBODY Products, Technology & Services, recommends promoting and sanctioning social time.
Carve out time for that ‘water cooler’ team building that doesn’t happen naturally when working remote. Try virtual happy hours or leave a video conference on at all times so people can come and go at will.
Steph, Happiness Ambassador at Ten Over Studio, recommends beefing up the empathy and flexing your compassion muscles.
You never know what challenges the person on the other side of the video call has had to overcome today, so rather than reading into nuances of change (like voice tone and short responses), extend patience and kindness as much as possible.
Marisa from County of SLO Human Resources reminds us to routinely step away from work.
Protect your personal time! It’s really easy to work through lunch and breaks, but that neglects your personal well-being. Eat lunch away from your desk, go on a walk with your kids, or play with your dog on your 15-minute break. Follow that end-of-work day routine, and TURN IT OFF.
Jennifer, Senior HR Generalist at Morris & Garritano, recommends giving the computer a break too.
We noticed computers run especially hot with a lot of video meeting attendees. When working remotely on a laptop, make sure and keep the power cord handy, and turn off your video to preserve battery if needed.
Michael, Community Engagement Director at TMHA, recommends over communicating with clients.
It is challenging for clients to adapt to a digital environment, which causes some anxiety. The counter is to work harder to increase points of contact. We recommend a motivational interview approach to help guide effective communication.
Devon, AVP/Human Resources at SESLOC Credit Union, reminds us to be transparent.
Because remote workers are often left out of impromptu meetings/conversations that lead to decisions, it’s important to communicate the ‘why’ related to what you are asking a remote worker to do—however seemingly irrelevant. Draw connections between daily work and overarching organization goals to help build engagement.
Phillip, Public Information Officer at Atascadero State Hospital, recommends turning your operational binder into a team wiki.
An operational binder includes your essential daily activities: what report needs to go out, who needs to be contacted, etc. It acts as a working diagram of what you are responsible for each day. Turning each team members’ binder into a team wiki keeps everyone on the same page without dropping critical deadlines and tasks.
Coco, Technical Writer at Cannon, recommends preserving the morning routine.
Avoid the roll-out-of-bed temptation! Get ready for your work day as if you were getting ready to go into the office. Working from home offers more time to your morning, but this essential routine sets you up for a successful (or not so successful) work day.
Superintendent Butler, Atascadero USD, recommends ‘minimizing’ screen time for books.
The whole family needs less screen time, so make a conscious effort to add good-old fashioned reading to your day. Your eyes and family will appreciate the printed word.
Michelle, Member Experience Manager with the SLO Chamber, says to not leave the change process to chance.
Carefully plan and schedule important communications and team member participation forums in advance. Determine what strategies you will implement, and which individuals can support you in managing your team’s transition to remote work.
Lindsey, Community Relations at PG&E, reminds us to celebrate.
Take time to recognize birthdays and team member successes. This combats feelings of isolation, and keeps up team moral.
Getting There Together
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