Connectivity in a Virtual Workplace
Creating, maintaining, dismantling then re-imagining connectivity among colleagues has been a true challenge during the pandemic. Zoom has become one of the most used platforms during the past few years. We're sure that many of our readers have been on Zoom at one point or the other to connect with a person, attend a webinar, or even conduct full-scale virtual events.
This article discusses how we can effectively communicate in a virtual format. It basically explains that as helpful as video conference platforms have been, one thing that's difficult to gauge online is nonverbal communication. This is even more challenging when participant/s turn their video feed off.
During an in-person meeting, the chair can sense when their audience needs a break, when to change topics, and so on. That's not always the case with a virtual meeting.
However, the dynamic can change in a virtual meeting if we make sure that breaks are built into the agenda, and encourage participants to unobtrusively indicate whether they need further clarification. There's a need for more proactivity, but it is definitely possible.
Furthermore, a spontaneous conversation with a fellow staff member, sharing their unique sense of humour, isn't always easily replicated through a virtual format. Although, a fun way of channeling some goofiness through online avenues is the use of memes and emojis, which has been floating through the web even before the pandemic.
There's no one answer to keeping connections while physically apart, as we are fortunate enough to have many options, some already listed above. In addition to those already mentioned, we can utilize phone calls, emails, perhaps an outdoor meeting (in line with provincial health orders) to keep in touch.
For example: we have a colleague that sends virtual holiday cards via email, which is a very personal and eco-friendly way of distributing some seasonal cheer. Another example would be to send out an email blast with a joke every Friday, to start the weekend with a laugh!
Finding what works for your professional environment can help enhance workplace culture, encourage creativity in problem solving, and overall have a profound effect on productivity as well.
Engaging with people, inviting new audiences, exploring innovative avenues of connectivity, can be hard work. There are a lot of moving parts, logistics are not always straightforward, and time zone differences can be a barrier. Nevertheless, the challenge and the subsequent fruits of our labour can be incredibly satisfying.
Excitement awaits!
