Advancements in technology have changed how we live beyond recognition. Technology is in every facet of our lives, changing how we live, work and play. The work landscape has dramatically changed over the past couple of decades. The time of being restricted to a specific location has gone; you will more than likely work alongside colleagues in different states, time zones and countries as global work practices and relationships are explored. The chances are high that you know your associates by an e-mail address, or a by a profile picture; you may work remotely in Boston when your line client is in London. Work knows no borders.
The downside to this is that the term ‘remote’ may mean exactly what it says on the tin. You can feel isolated working from your home office, and miss the social interaction with colleagues to inspire and motivate. So, how do you combat the loneliness of working remotely? Here are 4 ways to reconnect.
1. Leave the house
If you’re working alone, the best way to beat loneliness is to leave the house. This can be as simple as going for a walk during your lunch break, or looking for a workspace near coffee shops, libraries or other offices. If you are feeling like this, there will also be scores of other solo professionals in your area feeling exactly the same, and opening a coworking space becomes a viable option for you to consider.
2. Group connect
Just because you are telecommuting does not mean that you cannot engage with your colleagues. Set up a group chat such as Skype to bounce ideas off each other, or even just to exchange pleasantries. This not only builds on team relationships, but allows you to engage with the outside world in real time. This form of communication allows quick conversation to flow and is certainly less rigid than e-mail.
3. Use your camera
While one of the benefits of telecommuting is that you could work in your pajamas, it does not mean that you should! By turning on your camera, and speaking face to face with colleagues, you connect with them on a far greater level than just via an e-mail or messages. Nonverbal communication is key to understanding exactly what is actually being said: meaning can be lost in text.
4. Collaborate
Working on projects alongside a colleague can act as a great motivation. Rather than working separately on projects, and e-mailing the relevant documents, use technology to connect you. A simple but highly effective way to do this is to connect on Skype, but work with your mute button on. When you need to ask a question, simply unmute your microphone and ask the question. This way you maintain your privacy but can simulate an office work environment. You are not limited to working with one person, but you can work collaboratively with as many as you wish!
It’s important to stay motivated in your work, and often that is challenged by the loneliness that remote working can instill. By using the tips above, you will remain an efficient, productive member of the team. The technology is there so use it to your benefit!
Founder Dinis Guarda
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