7 Tips for Teams Working Remotely During COVID-19

It’s clear that we’re living and working in unprecedented times. While business must go on as best it can, there is room for leaders to lead and build routines and structure so their teams can be successful and supported.

In this post, I’m covering  7 tips for teams working remotely during COVID-19.

1. Set up regular calls and video conferencing

Phone and video conferencing through Zoom and other software have been available before this health crisis, however, these tools prove even more important now. Such calls and virtual meetings can help everyone feel connected, hearing familiar voices and seeing each other. BONUS TIP: Open or close each call with something positive. This can be from the organizer or everyone can share.

2. Get dressed every day like you’re going into the office

It’s easy to stay in comfortable lounge wear especially at home. Getting dressed as if you’re going into the office or to an appointment helps you transition mentally, physically, and emotionally into a work mindset. It will help you move through the business day even when there’s little to no change in the physical environment.

3. Be open to fresh ideas from each other

This is a great time to seek ideas from your team, other teams and organizations as well for ways to maintain and adapt your business. An idea that seemed unnecessary or less probable, perhaps transitioning to remote work or flexible hours, may be tested and implemented now. There can be new solutions. Ready to adapt your business for the future? Check out my webinar on the 4-day workweek that offers insight, research and a blueprint to get you and your team started!

4. Encourage sharing (safely)

Whether it’s office supplies or household supplies, encourage your team to help each other out. Offering materials and supplies that can be valuable to employees in need is really in the spirit of teamwork. Keep safety and health in mind when doing this.

5. Be specific with objectives and deadlines

One way to reduce stress is to be specific with team and individual objectives and deadlines. This creates work structure and helps all to focus. It’s a time of adaptation for organizations down to each individual employee. Structure and focus can help everyone feel a sense of clarity. Your team is looking for leadership and this is one way to help them navigate through a difficult situation.

6. Ask about your team’s families and related concerns

As you help your team navigate and adapt, actively ask about your team’s families in conversations and individually if more appropriate. Allow your employees to share their concerns; if that’s not possible, make sure to provide resources that can help them share concerns beyond their team and family.

7. Recommend inspirational content

Positive reminders and support go far right now. Instead of making light of a difficult situation, recommend content and activities that will help your employees when they’re not working. Movies and shows on Netflix, YouTube videos and uplifting songs, Instagram accounts, and other resources are readily available online.
BONUS TIP: Create a running list on a shareable Google Doc where your team can recommend inspirational content and activities. This can be updated easily and referenced as often as desired.

In uncertain times, we need to be leaders. There will always be difficult days, so it’s critical to make sure as a leader that you’re able to create structure and adapt. Your team needs your support and encouragement. Adjust and adapt in ways that’s right and supportive for your team.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or tips you want to share.