Positively Connected

We are definitely in unchartered territory. Work is only one of the challenges you and your employees are facing during this time of crisis. While getting work done may be top of mind for you as a manager, remember you probably have no idea what your employees are faced with each and every day. Here are some tips to keep your connections positive.

• Phone calls. Zoom and Skype meetings are keeping us connected, but they are exhausting. As a manager, you want to be as available as possible, so don’t overlook the significance of a personal phone call from time to time.  They give you a chance to hear one-on-one how your employees are doing.

• Be human. You should be as visible as possible, but don’t forget the human side. Have some fun. We have a colleague who is sending a fun JibJab video to her team every day. What a great way to put a smile on a face while showing a silly and very human side to your employees.

• Open-door policy. Sure, doors don’t exist in our virtual world, but bring meaning to policies that promote transparency and open communication. Make sure your employees know they can connect with you when they need you, but don’t forget to set some boundaries as to when it’s appropriate to call or text.  Let them know you’ll respond in a timely manner.  Being available during this time will make your staff more comfortable.

• Have fun. Our meetings may be virtual, but that doesn’t mean they have to be impersonal. Consider starting each meeting with an ice breaker.  Ask a question like “what’s the best meal you’ve cooked or eaten while quarantined or anything that gets people talking and laughing. This will make a huge difference to your team.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This is a great time to remind your employees to take advantage of their helpful services available to employees and family members.  EAP’s offer counseling on a variety of topics including depression and anxiety, and most have financial experts as well.  These services can be lifelines for your staff at a time like this.

• Recognition programs. Praise your employees for the things they do above and beyond, and right now, that’s probably most if not all of your team. Celebrate as if you were physically together using online platforms and applications. 

Be kind to your employees and also to yourself and we’ll get through this.