Nowadays, everything is virtual and remote. From work to ordering pizza from Domino's, technology has made it so we don't have to leave our house at all. Who needs a car or business clothes or daily interactions with your coworkers anyway?
As much as we love our technology, it isn't the greatest for communication.
The video says it all. Drop calls, barking dogs, and whatever else can be going on in the background can ruin a meeting. Instead of letting these negatives happen, let's learn how to be more effcient with technology:1. Trust
Virtuality requires trust for a team to work together sufficiently. There's this thing called proximity principle—the closer you are, the more likely you are to create relationships. Trust is easier to build when you are closer than when you are through a computer screen. How do you build trust? Allow your workers to connect with each other through social media platforms. Encourage engagment and conversation. But what is more important than that is to allow each member to know what each person is contributing to the company. If everyone knows that everyone is doing their part, it will be easier for them to trust each other while working.
2. Choice of Technology
You wouldn't make a Google account for a 2 year old and tell him/her to navigate through the Drive. It just doesn't make sense. The technology you use with your members should make sense. If they can't work it, then it won't work. Take into consideration the skills they have and what technology they are most comfortable with.
Remember to provide sufficient training and help. Don't leave them hanging.
3. Communicate Appropriately
Would you breakup over text or in person? In the end, it is all about making the right choices. Breaking up over text obviously won't end so well or won't be taken the right way. You want to pick the right media to communicate with each other. For complicated and information-filled messages, video conference and in-person meetings would be the best. For memos and reminders, emails or texts are the best way to reach each other. Not only is it effective, but reduces miscommunication among each member. Less miscommunication means less complications which leads to better output.
The transition from physical work to virtual work can be difficult but is doesn't have to be impossible. It just takes a little more practice and skills to work through the screen.