During the COVID-19 pandemic, collaboration with our coworkers may seem impossible. We will likely have to continue to stay at least six feet apart from one another, even when we return to the office. Open offices will become divided for our safety and in person, face-to-face interactions will likely be limited. We will not be able to work together in the same ways we have before.
But the encouraged physical distancing between people doesn’t have to put an end to co-working and collaboration. As many people have already learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, technology can help us work together when we are apart. And with a little creativity, coworkers will find new ways to solve problems, be innovative, and work as though distance is not an obstacle.
Comprehensive Reports
Physical distancing can have anyone feeling a little lost or out of the loop. Some people may worry that they’re asking their leaders too many questions or not enough. Because it can sometimes be hard to know exactly what’s expected of you as a physically distant worker, especially without the nearby support of your leaders and coworkers. That is why it is important to give comprehensive reports and provide the necessary tools to be successful. Having clear, attainable goals for the team can reduce stress and increase productivity. It can also help coworkers know when they can collaborate on a project with one another and give input or feedback.
Real-Time Communications
Many workplaces use email as their sole way to communicate with one another, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdown. But the delay of receiving and sending emails can make teams feel more distant from one another. Email, though a fast way to send and receive messages a decade or two ago, can now feel a lot like snail mail. This is especially true now that we have the technology that supports real-time communications, like instant messaging and video conferencing.
Zoom, Google Hangouts, Slack, and other similar platforms allow us to feel closer to our teams and solve problems quicker. They also allow coworkers to still maintain rapport with physical distance between them. Because as the closest thing to actually interacting in person, real-time communication allows us to read each other’s initial reactions, whether through emojis or facial expressions. With this emotional awareness, messages are less likely to be misinterpreted and more likely to be received as intended.
Support and Encouragement While Physical Distancing
The COVID-19 pandemic came as a shock to many. Day-to-day routines have drastically changed. As workers now work from home, some are also caring for children or taking care of family members who have fallen ill. There are new responsibilities and new stressors. So, it is important check-in with workers and provide them with the flexibility that they need. They should be encouraged to take breaks and connect with their leaders and coworkers for support. Because workers need the support of teams, now more than ever.
