I first wrote and scheduled this blog piece a while ago. It seems to me that in these unprecedented times of ‘social distancing’ and increased home working, effective communication for teams is more important than ever. We need to support each other and communicating well is part of that.
If you are planning how your team is going to stay connected while you are physically remote from each other, I hope you find these tips helpful.
One of my business values (and a personal one, for that matter) is to be connected – this means in practice that I always consider myself to be part of the organisation I am working with for the duration of my connection to them.
Due to the variety of my work, this may be a brief contact through a half-day training workshop, a longer connection through a bigger project such as an in-depth review of their internal communications or relationships that are built up over time spent working alongside them so that they can deliver effective communication about their work and support them in achieving their objectives.
I once wrote a piece for a freelancers website about how I love being part of a team and how I have found that working for myself enables me – somewhat counter-intuitively – to be part of many different teams.
Over the years I have been privileged to witness many different groups and teams in action. My belief in the fundamental importance and impact of communication in the functioning of teams and organisations has been reinforced over and over again.
Here are 3 elements that I think are vital for effective team communication:
Many teams get some, but not all, of these right. Others communicate in ways that work for them, but might not be as effective elsewhere. I have seen all sorts.
Thank you to all the teams I have worked with over the years, you have all taught me something.
Sending positive and supportive vibes to you all. Stay safe and well.
Until next time
Sarah