Even before the coronavirus outbreak, many people dreamed about working remotely. Their main idea of remote work was freedom. But now, as most of us are required to work from home, we realize that it can get quite lonely. That’s why we need to come up with other ways to stay connected to our colleagues. How can we do that?
Luckily, we live in a modern world where technological advancements happen non-stop. From different tools and software to various magnificent apps, we can stay in touch with other employees who will be just one click away! So, check out these ways to stay connected while working remotely.
1. Video chat
No matter where you are at the moment, if you have a good internet connection, you can always call your favourite colleague, have a chat and catch up. Numerous different video chat apps exist on the market. You can opt for free ones or paid apps, it’s up to you and the preferences of the features. What are the other reasons video call apps are necessary?
First thing first, you can communicate with your boss or manager. Be proactive and ask for their time to discuss your work performances and tasks. In addition to that, many video call apps allow you to share your screen, which is great for work presentations and other types of training. So, keep up with modern technologies!
2. Schedule syncing
You certainly have a favourite colleague you miss when you’re working remotely. Even though you can’t meet in person, you can stay connected knowing you’re working at the same time! What does that mean?
Instead of planning the schedule for yourself, include your colleague or best friend in the process and create matching schedules! That’s how you’ll have matching breaks so you can spend them together, virtually. On top of that, schedule syncing can help you stay productive and motivate you to complete your tasks so you can have more time with your bestie!
3. Encourage online onboarding
Even though many companies shifted to online and remote work, they still employ new candidates that require onboarding. Try to remember how lost and confused you felt when you first started working. Remote conditions may be even harsher! So, try to introduce them to the team.
As in-person onboarding isn’t possible, think of the ways you can make a new member feel as welcome as possible. Organise daily video conference calls where you and your teammates will try your best to engage and introduce work to your new colleague. In addition to that, it can help you feel more connected and maybe meet a new great team member!
4. Online social events and team building activities
Team building activities were a thing before everyone shifted to remote work. Therefore, it’s common to feel lonely and isolated. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t connect with your colleagues and strengthen your team spirit online. After all, teamwork and support are now more important than ever!
Use various remote work tools to organise team-building activities or social events. For example, if you’re in a geeky team, consider organising video game night where everyone will try out different games and play them as a team! Other ideas may include watching a movie together, discussing certain topics or simply talking and getting to know each other.
5. Don’t forget about work-life balance
Changing your work environment may affect your work-life balance. As you’re working remotely, you may find it hard to keep your personal life out of the business, and vice versa. No matter how much you love your colleagues, you’ll need some time for yourself, away from work-related matters. So, try to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.
To maintain your health while working remotely try to stay active physically and present mentally. Don’t answer business calls and emails outside your working hours. That will help you maintain the sense of presence in the moment and privacy everyone needs.
6. Easier communication
Even though video calls are handy, you can’t expect everyone to be present or at their desks at all times. Sometimes you’ll need to send them a quick, less formal message and expect a reply almost instantly. However, that isn’t possible with emails either. So, what can you do?
You can find a solution that will be easy to use, accessible and engaging to all employees. That’s why implementing intranet to your business strategy is crucial for immediate connection. Equip your phones with a reliable app that will allow you to contact your colleagues and stay up to date with work.
7. Virtual lunches
The Internet gives you possibilities to connect in many ways. A lot of people are used to hanging out with colleagues during lunch breaks. And even though this isn’t possible in person; you can host virtual lunches where you can all catch up and connect.
Bring your own food and drinks and chat with your colleagues like you used to. They will certainly appreciate the invitation to hang out during the break. In addition to that, you can find out how their work is going and share some tips on how to stay productive while working from home.
Conclusion
Even though working remotely may seem a bit lonely at first, there are numerous ways in which you can connect with your teammates and stay in touch. These are only some ideas to help you break out of the rut. Who knows, in the end, you might find working from home to be quite beneficial?!
