Working remotely has its advantages. It also has its challenges. One of the major trends emerging recently, reminds me of the old adage, …”out of site, out of mind…” (a little play on words with that one).
After watching what happened to my executive coaching client last week, you might want to read on.
This individual works at a remote site with others who are dedicated on-site employees in a different location. During a meeting, he had something very important to share. The problem was he was drowned out by those who were face to face with the benefit of reading body language. Despite his attempts to gain traction and air his concerns, the manager moved on and ignored my clients attempt to share valuable information.
Why?
90% of all communication is rooted in face to face involvement, meaning body language is critical to interpreting both content and context. When you are conferencing in on a phone call, or working in Zoom/Web Ex or other conferencing tool, that critical information is either lost or significantly impacted.
My client was miffed because they believed their manager should have known better to circle the wagons, ensuring that everyone was given opportunity to reported-out with completion. Good luck on that one.
So, as I held in session, I will share with you five ways to get seen and heard when you are a remote employee.
Remote But Not Forgotten: 5 Essentials To Remain In The Loop
Take these 5 steps to ensure visibility:
· Don’t assume that every manager is a accomplished facilitator. Facilitation of meetings is a skill that takes effort and education and practice. Take responsibility for your own success by increasing your assertion and presence
· Reach out ahead of time and send your talking points to the meeting facilitator
·Send them in written form; include co-workers in the communication when you do
Make an assertive claim for the floor by informing participants ahead of the meeting how much time you will need. Include why this is important to EVERYONE
· Suggest to leadership (or if you are a leader reading this) to establish “stand-ups” on a regular basis, most effectively launched as part of a daily routine
Stand up, or scrum meetings began in the field of agile software,
but now are a tool that more and more leaders are using.
They are regularly scheduled, short and pointed check ins for all team members. The focus is to bring everyone on board with what is happening “that day” or “currently” with team members
When appropriately organized and run, stand-ups are a powerful tool to bring communication where you need it to be for your company
Mary Schechter
lnkd.in • 1 min read