Management Experts Share Tips for Supporting Virtual Workforce Teams

Reimagining the Culture

Dr. Stoverink

How can we reimagine our work culture when the rituals and ceremonies of the office are not as accessible anymore—not to mention how to integrate new employees into the culture and the rhythms of the office? How will team culture look in the new hybrid normal? How will we reimagine the office to reinforce the culture in new and better ways, ensuring those at home and those in the office are experiencing the same culture?

Bumping into colleagues in the hallways or by the water cooler is important. “We didn’t realize how much those conversations mattered for building strong workplace relationships,” Dr. Stoverink said. Meanwhile, burnout is a massive organizational issue in many settings. He recommended gauging the team’s stress levels, asking questions, analyzing their responses and watching out for the more troublesome manifestations of job stress and burnout.

What else can leaders do to build strong relationships on the team? Create time for personal bonding and make space for relationships to thrive. Encourage and reward those team members who provide social support to one another. “Make meetings more intentional, inclusive and social. Make sure everyone is heard,” he said. That may mean assigning a moderator or facilitator who isn’t the team leader.

“Strive for well-planned social interactions where everyone feels included,” Dr. Stoverink said. Other tips include making a habit of offering empathetic recognition, which can be easily done by routinely finding small ways to express gratitude. Share weekly goals with the team. “I encourage you as leaders to be intentional,” he added. “The future of work does not look the same. Virtual and hybrid work cultures were going to be part of our future, anyway. COVID-19 just accelerated it.”

Larry Beresford is a medical journalist in Oakland, Calif.

Reference

1. Schnitker SA. An examination of patience and well-being. J Posit Psychol. 2012 Jul;7(4):263–280.