Hira Ali

One of the main downsides of working virtually is the difficulty in separating work from personal life. Without a clear end to the workday and no commute to mark the transition, work hours often bleed into family or relaxation time, increasing the risk of burnout. Extended work hours can lead to greater fatigue, stress, and reduced productivity. This situation can also result in health issues, including musculoskeletal disorders, mental health challenges, obesity, and a higher risk of heart disease. Therefore, it's crucial to provide employees with protected time and regular breaks to help them consciously unwind and manage daily stress.

Opposing viewpoints contribute to a more constructive discussion. Understanding the factors that inform these perspectives is crucial. Cultural awareness can greatly benefit these conversations, helping us comprehend others' backgrounds and viewpoints. Acknowledging that your approach may not be the only or best way to address an issue can foster greater acceptance and collaboration.

Make sure you have a strong network of allies who can highlight your work and share your successes in places you might not reach yourself. This support is valuable, but remember to advocate for yourself as well, as no one knows your achievements better than you do.

As a leader, it is essential to manage not only your own distractions and interruptions but also those that affect your team members, especially women and people from marginalised groups during meetings. To ensure that everyone is heard and valued, you can appoint a gatekeeper to track interruptions or idea usurpation. You can also establish meeting etiquette policies that prohibit interruptions. During meetings, try to create space and resist the temptation to be the only one to talk. To engage all participants equally, toss the ball strategically. If you notice repeat interrupters or detractors, pull them aside and speak to them about what they're doing.

Working virtually can sometimes mean missing out on in-person connections and bonding; hence, leaders need to make an extra effort to keep those connections going and foster team cohesion virtually. Encourage those working with you to take time for self-care and undertake whatever other activities invigorate them. Begin meetings with open-ended questions, a practice that not only allows people to vent and exchange their thoughts and feelings but also makes them feel heard and appreciated. It’s essential to nurture and strengthen team morale. Introducing water coolers may also help boost team motivation and camaraderie.

It would be useful to set boundaries and establish clear expectations regarding work hours, availability, communications, meetings, and deadlines from the very start. When staff members are already experiencing stress from various factors such as a global crisis, even normal tasks may seem overwhelming. They may experience 'learned helplessness', believing they cannot control or change their situation, even when the power for positive change is available to them. In such situations, break down intangible wider team goals into weekly or daily goals that can be measured and delivered on a controlled basis. This gives the team traction towards goals. Avoid setting unrealistic goals and establishing any stringently imposed deadlines.