Keeping in Touch With Colleagues When WFH or Studying

The move to large-scale remote working for the UK has been a dramatic shift for many businesses and employees. Whilst we all settle into our new normal, it is important to remember the wellbeing of your team and colleagues.

With all the change and upheaval in our working and learning environments it is important to pick up tips and best practice to make this difficult situation easier for you and your team.

Maintaining contact with your colleagues is going to be a vital aspect of sustaining remote working for a long period of time. It’s important that your team maintain some form of regular contact during this period. Reasons for this may include:

• Keeping a check on the wellbeing of your colleagues and members of the team
• Continue to support your colleagues with workload
• Discussing any relevant developments or changes, sharing best practice and developing new ideas.

To support you whilst you work from home, we have compiled a list of some tips for staying in touch with your colleague that may make the adaptation a smoother process.

Arrange virtual get-togethers

While a face-to-face catch-up with your colleagues is currently an impossibility, why not schedule time into your day to have a coffee and a chat with your work mates? You can have a casual discussion about work, share tips for coping with the day-to-day of remote working or even recognise birthdays and special occasions.

Show your appreciation

If one of your colleagues has provided you will some valuable support or assistance during this period, it can mean a lot to them if you make the extra effort to show your appreciation or gratitude. Contact their manager, recognise them through any internal platforms or simply praise them over a call or email.

Engage with your colleagues outside of work

Make sure you continue to converse with your colleagues about non-work related subjects away from your usual working day. Keep in touch through video calls, messaging, social media or just a phone call. Continue to take an interest in your colleagues life outside of work and maintain a close social bond during this difficult time.

Take regular breaks

Remember to take the time and space away from your workspace that you need. Where possible set your work area from your usual recreation areas to maintain some degree of separation from work and relaxation. Make time for fresh air and a break where required during your day.

One of the biggest challenges throughout this period will be to maintain your own mental health and wellbeing. If you require further guidance or advice, please visit mind.org.uk.