What Does Communication Look Like in This Virtual Time, and how has it Changed Organizational Productivity (Addressing Both the Negative & Positive)
Do you feel like this? Like you left on a Friday and then everything changed by Monday?
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has completely and immediately shifted the operations of organizations all over the world, and because of this, many leaders were forced to adapt very quickly; essentially over the weekend. This, coupled with other economic factors has placed companies in difficult situations, and unfortunately, the light at the end of the tunnel isn’t very clear (at least as I write this post).
So, I’d like to address what communication looks like in this virtual time, and how it has changed organizational productivity (addressing both the negative & positive). Since there is a strong reality that many organizations will be virtual through 2020, it’s time that we not only operate virtually, but do so productively.
Assumptions that happen with communication.
Because the world changed quickly, most organizations did not have an adequate amount of time to be intentional about virtual communication. However, now that we are well-aware that ‘social distancing’ is much more than a two week stint, I encourage you to challenge the assumptions you have made in regards to communication. Below I’ve laid out some of the common problems I’m seeing organizations navigate through during this time.
How are you resourcing your team?
It’s important to understand that not every team member needs the same amount of information to be productive. Because of this, it’s important that you understand exactly what each member of your team needs during this virtual period. By resourcing your team members according to who they are, and what they need, you’re empowering them to be more productive.
Are you using the right communication methods?
Additionally, not every team member communicates in the same way. This means that if you’re not tailoring your communication methods to the individuals on your team, those team members likely aren’t operating in their fullest capacity. This reality becomes even more magnified when you throw in the element of operating virtually. Have you decided as a team which tools you are using? When is it appropriate to send a text vs. an instant message? Are you actually frustrating the person receiving the message? These are all questions to consider regarding your method(s) of communication.
Have you taken into account your team’s personal life?
This may be the understatement of the century, but your team’s personal lives have been shaken up due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Because of this, it’s important that you’re taking into account their personal needs (or at least taking time to understand what they are). A few things to ask your team members about include childcare needs, health of their families and how they are feeling about life at the moment.
But you can improve communication with these things.
Virtual communication can also help improve productivity. To do so, it’s important that you - as a leader - ask this question: am I being intentional about how I am helping our team communicate during this virtual period? A few things to consider as you're asking this question are listed below.
Try and be flexible with timing
As mentioned above, your team’s personal lives have been shaken up due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Because of this, work doesn’t always happen between 9am and 5pm. While certain tasks, roles and responsibilities dictate specific hours of execution, try and be flexible with the items that don’t. This not only postures your leadership as accommodating, but it shows that you trust your team to do their jobs. An up-front conversation can go a long way, while maintaining trust.
Be sure to communicate effectively
When miscommunication happens, over communication happens. So, be intentional and take extra time to organize and share your messages. When leaders communicate clearly and concisely, they communicate effectively. Additionally, think about the platforms you communicate to your team members within. Specifically, think about if they are receiving enough information, personal connection and feeling of camaraderie. Communication can bind your team together or it can tear it apart, so be sure to - as a leader - communicate effectively.
Take time to validate your team
One area of virtual business that often goes unnoticed is the concept of personal validation. When we are working together (in the office), validation often comes naturally. This isn’t always the case with virtual work. Thus, as a leader it’s your responsibility to validate your team by acknowledging the things they are currently navigating. These items may include job security questions, miscommunication and misunderstandings about their work/role or simply feeling like they aren’t a part of something larger than themselves. Whatever the reason, take time to listen first and validate second.
As virtual operations become more of the norm, it’s important that organizations address what communication looks like in this time; optimizing swiftly and appropriately. My hope is this blog provides you with some insights and questions to begin asking with your team.
To learn more about how to communicate with your specific team in the midst of this pandemic, I’d love to have a conversation.
Increase communication. Increase productivity.
-E