Workplaces have changed drastically since the start of the pandemic. They’re now hybrid, mobile, and virtual However, need the main factors that build teams, i.e fostering camaraderie and creating an environment people want to be in, are still essential. Randstad’s Workmonitor worker sentiment surveyOpens a new window found that flexibility is still a key with 77% of workers looking for it in their jobs and careers.Â
By using technology effectively, we can create both the culture and the adaptability that today’s workforce demands. To build a workplace centered on this, HR leaders should utilize uncommon tools, build communities with technology, and retain a focus on well-being virtually.
Tap Into the Uncommon Tools of Today’s Workplace
We all know about Slack and Zoom, but what about the more uncommon technological tools changing the workplace? There are many ways that organizations can leverage these well-known apps to cultivate the “in-person feel†online. To begin, upgrade your meeting using the huddle rooms within Slack. These are an easy and convenient way to bring teams together without sending a calendar invite or setting up a call line.Â
Looking for a new way to brainstorm? Try using a whiteboard within Zoom or leveraging Figma to collaborate in real-time. Open to making new connections? Look into Slack’s Donut feature which allows coworkers to be randomly paired within a channel to go on a virtual coffee chat. At Wise, we have made this “Meetwise†feature available for cross-functional and cross-regional conversations to build rapport with new co-workers regularly.Â
If you’re trying to keep teams engaged during a call, try Mentimeter. It’s interactive presentation software that can be used to create fun and engaging quizzes to keep teams engaged over a video call. Game-based learning platform, Kahoot can be integrated into presentations to poll teams and build engagement. These tools are changing the way we interact with each other in what’s becoming an increasingly hybrid or even fully remote atmosphere.Â
See More: 2022 Workplace Predictions: Reexamining Hybrid Work and the MetaverseOpens a new window
Focus on Community Building With Technology
To engage with each other throughout the work day, we also want to be in a workplace that helps to build a community. There are different options to do this, and one place to start is with lunch. At Wise, we use a team lunch app called Relish that lets Wisers customize their meals for dietary restrictions and preferences. We also encourage teams to come in and eat together on the days’ lunch is provided, allowing continued flexibility with working from home but still coming into the office. any organizations have fully remote teams and provide options like UberEats to encourage teams to order in and eat together over Zoom. That helps in bringing folks together but in a way that works best for everyone.
Community-building using technology also extends to in-office collaboration. Investing in electronic whiteboards is an easy way to share notes and brainstorming material across offices and for employees tuning in from wherever they need to.Â
Technology plays a crucial role in building camaraderie in the workplace, both virtually and in person. Tap into the tools that work best for your workplace and implement them, see how they work, and, go from there.Â
Foster Well-being in a Virtual Environment
Closely tied to community-building is an increased focus on fostering well-being within the company.LinkedIn’s recent 2022 Global Talent TrendsOpens a new window reports that if employees feel cared for at work, they are 3.2 times more likely to be happy at work.
While shifting typically in-person activities to being virtual may seem challenging, in reality, it’s not that tricky. Leading Zoom meditations or yoga is a great way to engage teams without being together – it may even help engage a few more people than usual. Other events, like painting workshops, nutrition classes, plant potting, and more, are great ways that work virtually. There’s also an opportunity to host virtual sessions that will help teach your team members about important life skills that impact different aspects of their well-being, like financial wellness.
Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to how companies should leverage technology in their workplaces. We’re still navigating a post-pandemic workplace, and so what’s most important to keep in mind is that you should gather feedback continuously from teams to know what’s working and to determine if anything needs to be changed. In doing so, you’ll allow and create the flexibility teams need.Â
Which tools are you using to build a flexible workplace? Share with us on LinkedInOpens a new window , TwitterOpens a new window , or FacebookOpens a new window . We’d love to know!
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