{ Promote the Remote }
As we work virtually, it is the technological tools that enable us to promote a positive work culture. Video-conferencing platforms allow us not to lose sight of culture, but further foster it by continued engagement to steer culture towards a collaborative and comforting direction. Utilize LinkedIn as well, so you’re not only connected with your teammates and other key people in your company, but also so you are building collaborative networks. Transitioning virtually doesn’t mean you lose a sense of your work culture, but more so an opportunity to further develop and influence it.
{ Empower Leadership }
This is a great time to continue motivating your team and identifying those partners whose solid vision aligns with business needs. This will build trust and productivity, and gives you the perfect gateway to ensure expectations are clearly defined. Understanding that while working remote our teams are wearing many hats, so to strengthen your team, continue communicating in both short-term and long-term orientation. Remember to stress taking a digital detox weekly, and not be ‘on-call’ digitally 24 hours a day.
{ Cultivate Transparency }
Being honest and candid during uncertain times, or anytime for that matter, is critical to a supportive and positive work culture. Scott, Founder of Emerging Blue, leads by this example every day by continually sharing information along with weekly and monthly goals with the team. This builds trust and leads to a team working at greater efficiency while keeping the vision, and continuing to identify new opportunities. No one likes to be left in the dark, so be the leader that brings your team a flashlight!
{ Uphold Company Values }
If you have a website that lists out your “isms” or company values, or perhaps they are placed in your employee manual and written all over the walls of your office space, it’s key to live out and be those values. Discuss these values in your remote meetings and showcase them with commitment by promoting an esteemed culture. And by all means, share those kid photos, pet photos, and virtual happy hours!