The Art of Keeping Communication Alive in Remote Work"
Introducing the Jobseeker Spotlight Segment🎉
Hi Superstar,
Communication in remote work often equates to over-communication. It delves deeper into the nuanced world of digital dialogues, a realm where the physical cues of traditional communication are replaced by emojis, text, and video calls. In this week's ABC series on remote work, I will be unraveling the threads of communication that not only bind remote teams together but propel them toward collaborative success.
For most introverted remote workers, communication might not come naturally. Take Momodu from Kenya for example, a meticulous data analyst who thrived in the quiet corners of his home, crunching numbers with a finesse that was nothing short of brilliance. However, when it came to sharing his findings with his team, he often hesitated, unsure of how to convey the brilliant ideas that lay between him and his colleagues.
The first step towards bridging this gap lies in understanding the importance of proactive communication. Proactive communication in remote work helps in keeping everyone informed and aligned on tasks and goals. It reduces misunderstandings, fosters a culture of openness, and ensures that issues are addressed promptly. For Momodu, he soon learned that sharing regular updates, even small ones, was a good start. This habit helped keep his team informed and created a sense of teamwork, even from afar. He also learned that asking questions was important. Each question he asked helped start conversations, brought in new ideas and made the team feel more connected.
However, it is important to note that communication should not be a monologue but a dialogue. This is where the essence of a two-way street in communication comes into play. Utilizing platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams, Momodu's team created channels dedicated to different projects, encouraging a free flow of ideas and updates. It wasn't just about sharing; it was about engaging, responding, and evolving together. This way, they could all talk, respond, and work together better, even though they were not in the same place.
Seeking feedback is the next frontier of keeping good communication in remote work. Feedback in a remote setting is like having a mirror held up to our work. It provides a clear reflection of where we stand and the areas we can improve. While it might be easy to shy away from feedback in a virtual setting, seeking it actively is a hallmark of a growth-oriented remote professional. For instance, Momodu began seeking feedback on his analyses, embracing the constructive critiques that streamed in from his colleagues, and soon realized that the feedback helped in the quality of his work and made him get a promotion at work.
In remote work, clear and regular communication is very important. It helps keep everyone on the same page, working together towards common goals, even when the team is spread out in different places. Over-communicating, asking questions, responding to others, and sharing feedback are simple but powerful ways to work well together, even from afar.
Effective Communication Tips for Introverted Remote Workers
Introverted remote workers might find the virtual communication landscape a bit daunting at first. However, with a strategic approach, they can navigate through it effectively. Here are some tips:
Prefer Written Communication: Introverted individuals often express themselves better in writing. Utilize chat and email platforms to share your ideas, provide updates, and ask questions.
Schedule Regular Updates: Set a regular schedule to share updates with your team. This practice can help in establishing a rhythm and ensuring that communication remains consistent.
Prepare for Meetings: Before attending virtual meetings, prepare what you want to say or discuss. Having a clear agenda can help in making your communication more effective.
Utilize One-on-One Chats: Sometimes, communicating in smaller or one-on-one settings can feel more comfortable. Schedule individual chats with team members or supervisors to discuss projects and provide updates.
Use Visual Aids: Visual aids like slides, graphs, or charts can help in conveying your ideas more clearly and succinctly.
Practice Active Listening: Engage in discussions by practicing active listening. You can acknowledge others' inputs and provide thoughtful responses.
Seek Feedback Privately: If you find public feedback daunting, request feedback in a private setting. It will help you understand your performance and areas of improvement.
Use ‘Do Not Disturb’ Wisely: It’s okay to use ‘Do Not Disturb’ features on communication tools when you need to focus. Just ensure to check back and respond to messages once you are available.
Explore Asynchronous Communication: Asynchronous communication allows you to respond in your own time. It can be less stressful and gives you time to formulate your responses.
Practice and Patience: Practice is key to becoming more comfortable and effective in communication. Be patient with yourself as you adapt and learn.
Sneak Peak of Remote Opportunities on the Job Board
Introducing a New Segment - ‘The Jobseeker Spotlight’
We are thrilled to unveil our new initiative, "The Jobseeker Spotlight," aimed at showcasing the incredible talents of individuals like you seeking remote work opportunities. This spotlight is not only a platform to exhibit your skills but also a chance for potential employers to discover the asset you could be to their teams. Plus, I will personally feature you on my LinkedIn account, extending your visibility to my professional network. Intrigued?
To participate, simply send an email to contact@inclusivelyremote.com with the following details in a document:
A brief biography that captures your journey.
An outline of your skills and experience that make you an outstanding candidate.
A compelling narrative on why you would be a valuable addition to any company.
Your LinkedIn URL for further professional insights.
Links to your portfolio to showcase your work.
A professional or cute headshot to add a personal touch.
We encourage you to seize this opportunity to market yourself as the exceptional talent you truly are. Each detail you provide will paint a picture of your professional persona, creating a compelling narrative for potential employers.
We look forward to celebrating you and your skills in "The Jobseeker Spotlight" and possibly unlocking doors to your next remote adventure!
Resume Templates Resources
I’m excited to announce that the much-anticipated inclusivelyremote stellar resume templates are now available! These templates have been instrumental in crafting success stories and aiding professionals in securing their dream remote positions. Each template is accompanied by a comprehensive customization guide to assist you in tailoring your own resumes. Additionally, editable versions of the templates are provided for your convenience. While you can make edits using various platforms, it's recommended to use Microsoft Word or Google Docs on a laptop or PC to ensure optimal formatting. Here are links to grab your copy:
The Inclusivelyremote Entry Level Internship Resume Template
The Inclusivelyremote Classic Resume Template
The Inclusivelyremote Signature Resume Template
Yours Truly,
Mary-Esther Anele (Your Career Cheerleader)