How recognition builds community in times of adversity.

The recent unrest around the world has forced many of us to pivot quickly, bring our teams together and at the same time, adjust how - and where - we work. On one hand we are trying to unify our teams in these uncertain times and provide them reassurance. On the other, we are isolating employees - for their own wellbeing and to #flattenthecurve.

For some companies, who already had flexible working arrangements in place, this has been a relatively smooth transition. For others the change has been bigger and more confronting.

While isolating teams and using technology to stay productive is the right thing to do, it is important that social isolation does not turn into total isolation. It is easy for those not used to working from home, those who thrive in a team or those who are reliant on the workplace for social interactions to feel very disconnected and lonely.

Aside from the functional collaboration tools, consider the tools you have that will help support employee wellbeing through this period. There are lots of things you can do to keep your team connected, focussed on your purpose and upbeat – even though they may be in lock-down.

Double down on connection.

If you are not already doing so, double down on opportunities to connect. Schedule a daily check-in with employees using tools like Zoom, WhatsApp or FaceTime if you are in small groups. These tools allow teams to dial-in, all see each other on screen and have real-time hangouts like you would in the office. Start the chats with some fun talk, chat about what is going on for each person and how you can best support each other. Then talk about the work at hand and how you can tackle it remotely so no-one feels like they are carrying too much load.

Do the same for one-on-ones. Set up a video call so you have human interaction not just a voice. Phone is great but now more than ever, we need to connect on a more human level. 

Focus on great work.

With so much negative news around, it is important to control the workplace narrative - even if the workplace is now spread across kitchen tables in multiple locations. 

Focus on the great work your team are doing in difficult times. Recognise them for the little wins, for showing up each day online and powering through their workload. Recognise them for innovating to get things done, for supporting each other and your clients. If one of your people is having a tough day, recognise them for being open and honest about where they are at and let them know how much you value them even on an off day.

While these may not be the things you typically recognise your team for, they are wins today and that should be celebrated.

Encourage appreciation from leadership.

Leadership are (usually) great at times like this, delivering messages to keep employees up-to-date and aware, and to make them feel supported in the new world order. Maintaining this trust and leadership directive is important as everyone adapts to new ways of doing things.

A great support to the message from the top is when those leaders show their appreciation directly to employees. They are probably busier than ever right now, pivoting and planning how to combat the challenges of today that did not exist a few weeks ago. But their direct support of employees is a powerfully human connection in troubled times.

This is as simple as asking leaders to check your social wall once a day (or every couple of days) and add their support to the posted recognitions. They can add their own recognition for those who are really shining under cloudy skies, congratulate individuals for the great work that is happening all over the place (literally) and add their heart and appreciation for all to see.

Encourage your team to support each other.

Team support is really important when we are all distanced. Set your team up in little groups. Two people working together here, four over there. While they may not be at the same table, having them work in groups keeps them connected to the cause, gives them a network for support and frees up some of your time to deal with adapting to the ever-changing needs of clients, leadership and your people. 

There is no doubt this has changed how we work but by creating a sense of community through these uncertain times, a sense of togetherness amongst the team, you will emerge stronger and more connected to your purpose.

If we are all about to work from home – or already are - let’s make it a powerfully human experience that strengthens the team, support individuals and makes everyone proud.