KEEP YOUR TEAM CONNECTED DURING COVID

Connected, by definition, means united, joined or linked; and having social, professional, or commercial relationships.

With Covid-19 came the rise of the WFH or ‘work from home’ workplace, which created barriers within teams, threatening the connection between teams and employees, hindering collaboration and stagnating the energy workers bounce off each other.

Here’s the good news: in one survey by GitLab, almost 90% of remote workers believe there is enough technology to enable remote team communication. 84% stated that they successfully pulled off their tasks from home. The survey also revealed that the WFH setup improved health, reduced anxiety and decreased office politics.

This means that an efficient remote team system that produces excellent output is possible. All it takes is a team willing to iron out the initial kinks in setting it up and a commitment to nurturing workplace connection.

PROPER MINDSET

In times of crisis, a crucial trait for a team leader is empathy. Understand that your team is still adjusting to the new work environment and uplift them by setting an example.

Show empathy. This is the time to be human. Be patient and listen to your team members.

Give team members the benefit of the doubt. The initial adjustment phase will be challenging. It’ll be easy to question team member’s commitment to work. Instead, encourage an environment of open communication, respect and trust.

Be flexible. Do not compare the past with the present, and accept that we are working under new

CULTIVATE RELATIONSHIPS

Open communication, trust and respect are natural in a team where there are healthy relationships. The most creative ideas also often spring from friendly office banter. Do not let remote work and intimidation with technology kill friendships in the workplace.

Hold regular team meetings. Let these meetings be places for members to air out their concerns, ideas and challenges with working from home. Foster a sense of community, and a support system. Anyways, we are all on the same boat.

Try virtual coffee breaks and virtual team bonding. These will encourage friendships outside work. Reach out to members you haven’t bonded with and check-in on them too.

Be a team. In a team, there is a feedback system to improve the working dynamic. Be collaborative, inclusive and interactive.

CLEAR COMMUNICATION

The new setup means that the team must create a new working system. This involves establishing new rules, norms and processes of making things happen. The success of this endeavor will depend on the quality of communication within the team.

Invest in communication tools. There is an abundance of technology for this. Try project management software like Basecamp and Slack, and communication apps like Trello, Be detailed and precise. We can no longer pop into someone’s cubicle to ask questions, so now is the time to be as specific as possible. Use tables, power points and images if needed. Don’t assume right away that everyone is on the same page. This will prevent confusion and mistakes, and save time and effort.

Make communication personal. Maximize video chats and phone calls.

ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES

WFH setup without boundaries can become toxic. No work boundaries in this setup can lead to a 24/7 oncall situation and end up destroying motivation. Boundaries will keep the working dynamic healthy and promote productivity.

Set working limits. Have a specific start, end and break time. Allow yourself to unplug during breaks or after your shift.

Set expectations. Be clear with the roles and responsibilities of each member in the team. This prevents confusion and is the foundation of a good remote team system.

Define rules of engagement. Agree upon how often people must communicate and when they should be available.

Resilience is about embracing, adjusting and growing during changes. With a proper mindset, good work relationships, clear communication and boundaries, your business can come through this better than ever.