Communication is the most essential tool for cultivating a successful work environment. With workspace changes created by the pandemic, many companies are turning to a hybrid-work model. Increased distance can lead to communication breakdowns. Here are tips to address potential communication failures and how to mitigate them.
Authenticity
Authenticity is at the core of any effective communication. The shift to online work means that it is more important than ever to humanize leadership. Compelling and capable leaders show kindness and genuine interest in their employees in order to foster a beneficial working relationship. But in this virtual environment it is crucial to be conscious of barriers created by different communication methods. For example, tone can often get lost through email, different employees have different preferences, and not everything needs to be a video call. Providing multiple formats of communication such as email channels or messaging apps can help to break barriers and create smooth communication.
Catch-Ups
While it is important to use multiple forms of communication, tools like Slack can inundate employees and cause constant distractions. To mitigate this, try scheduling short, 15-minute monthly one-on-one meetings to catch up on what your staffers are working on and how you can best help. Establishing this routine dialogue can foster a more open relationship and allow employees to share issues they might not be comfortable mentioning in a larger setting. The great thing about a hybrid model is that you can also schedule larger company wide “catch-ups” in the office. Face-to-face communication is often the most effective, and can boost morale and foster team building.
Onboarding
Hybrid environments can offset the problems that fully-remote offices face. Employees need facetime to best understand the company culture and feel part of the team. This is especially true for new hires, who should be prioritized for office time to help accelerate the transfer of knowledge and set company expectations.
Centralizing Clear Messaging
One of the main problems of a hybrid setting is that information can get lost between the cracks. Lots can get lost in translation with the flooding of messages in apps, there is high potential for information to be misheard or miscommunicated over video meetings, along with other issues. The principle to ensuring a positive communication environment in a hybrid office is to centralize communication and create clear goals for your team. Having one main place or platform of communication for administrative oversight can make things easier. Taking minutes, or just keeping written documentation where everyone has access ensures a mutual understanding of goals. Having a shared company calendar can also help mitigate miscommunication. Making information more accessible and lanes of communication straightforward works wonders for cultivating positive communication.
If your team’s communication needs an overhaul, reach out today to discuss how I can help.
