Ever-Boarding: A Strategy for Remote and Hybrid Success
I've just brewed my first cup of coffee, but it's not time for deep work yet. In a traditional office, I'd head to the break room, catch up with a colleague, and chat. And that's what I do virtually. I reach out to an online colleague on Slack for a casual "coffee chat."
These impromptu virtual coffee breaks are my lifeline in the remote world. They help me stay connected, build relationships, and feel part of a team despite the physical distance.
But these chats aren't just casual catch-ups; they're part of a broader strategy called "ever-boarding." It's the understanding that onboarding isn't a one-time event but an ongoing process of connection, engagement, and growth. And in the remote and hybrid world, it's not just important; it's essential.
The shift to remote and hybrid work models has undoubtedly brought flexibility and autonomy. However, it has also made fostering a sense of community and belonging more challenging. Casual interactions that once happened organically in offices, like quick chats by the coffee machine or brainstorming sessions in a hallway, are now absent.
In this new landscape, we can't rely on serendipitous encounters to build relationships and maintain engagement. We need to be deliberate and proactive. That's where practices like my virtual coffee chats come in. They're a simple but powerful way to recreate those casual connections, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose even when we're miles apart.
However, the power of in-person interactions should not be discounted. When possible, organizing well-planned team gatherings, whether regional or global, can significantly enhance camaraderie and reinforce company culture. The shared experiences, informal conversations, and team-building activities in a physical setting create a sense of togetherness that's challenging to replicate virtually.
Strategies for Building Community and Connection
Schedule regular virtual coffee breaks or social events where team members can connect on a personal level. Encourage casual conversations, icebreakers, and team-building activities to foster camaraderie and build relationships.
Pair new hires with experienced employees who can provide guidance, support, and a friendly face in the virtual world. This helps new employees feel welcomed and integrated into the team while providing valuable learning opportunities.
Utilize tools like Confluence, Slack, or Microsoft Teams to create a virtual workspace where team members can communicate, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. Encourage open communication and knowledge sharing to foster a sense of community and collective ownership.
Organize virtual team-building activities that promote collaboration, communication, and fun. This could include online games, virtual escape rooms, or even virtual cooking classes. The goal is to create shared experiences that bring the team together and strengthen bonds.
Celebrate achievements and milestones, both big and small, to show appreciation for your team members' contributions. Public recognition in virtual meetings or on collaborative platforms can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering a sense of belonging.
When feasible, organize well-planned team events with a clear agenda that fosters connection, learning, and alignment with the company's mission and values. Shared meals, team-building exercises, and informal conversations in a physical setting can significantly enhance team cohesion and reinforce company culture.
Atlassian: A Case Study in Revolutionizing Collaboration for Remote Teams
Atlassian, a trailblazer in collaboration software, is redefining the way teams work together, regardless of their physical location. By embracing remote work, Atlassian has created a vibrant virtual community that enables teams to excel from anywhere.
At the heart of Atlassian's success is its suite of collaboration tools, which empower teams to stay connected, aligned, and productive. Confluence serves as a central knowledge hub, providing easy access to information, documents, and project plans. Loom facilitates personalized video communication, enabling team members to connect on a deeper level and foster empathy. Jira Goals helps teams set clear objectives and track progress, ensuring everyone works towards the same goals.
Beyond its tools, Atlassian also prioritizes virtual social events, mentorship programs, and recognition initiatives to foster a sense of connection and engagement among its globally distributed workforce. These initiatives help break down geographical barriers and create a strong sense of community, allowing employees to feel valued and supported.
While virtual collaboration is essential, Atlassian recognizes the importance of periodic in-person gatherings to further strengthen team bonds and reinforce company culture. These gatherings provide opportunities for team members to connect face-to-face, build relationships, and experience the company's culture firsthand.
Atlassian's approach to remote work has proven successful, not only for its own teams but also for many other companies that have adopted its tools and implemented similar strategies. By leveraging Atlassian's collaboration software and combining virtual and in-person initiatives, these companies have created thriving remote and hybrid teams empowered to do their best work, regardless of their location.
