Sita rarely turned her video on during conference calls. An ‘unsaid’ working rule of virtual working is showing up through your machine! Revathi, the manager, insisted for everyone to turn on video and expected full compliance. Sita was a constant defaulter. Revathi tried to enforce compliance. With no results, she decided to talk to Sita.
During the one-on-one conversation, Sita talked about poor network connectivity at home and hence unable to stream video. However, as the conversation progressed, Revathi discovered that Sita was uncomfortable being on video…she had to move around the house during the call due to poor network connection, did not have a set place at home (everyone is now working from home). Sita felt she might be judged for her surroundings! She was also unable to understand why being on camera was so important, it did not impact her work!
Talking with Revathi, Sita realized the importance of being on camera and how this was important for everyone to ‘feel’ connected amidst the #socialdistancing. They also discussed, some tips on how Sita can create a space at home, set aside the ‘best’ internet spot so that she does not move around during important calls – these were pointers to begin with.
If you are a people leader, following might be good pointers to start with to connect with you teams as working virtually becomes the new normal…
Your employees will be working remotely more often. Spend time to think about how you build team culture virtually. What are you doing to engage, motivate your teams as they work #virtually?
One Reply to “Building emotional connect as teams work virtually”
Sweet article. Thanks for sharing this. I’ve never stopped to think about the reasons why people might be afraid of the camera. Thanks for sharing this POV.