I was having a virtual meeting with one of our dedicated female team member navigating the challenges of working from home. Our professional interaction was momentarily disturbed when her 2-year-old daughter, demanding the warmth of her mother’s attention, entered the scene by crying profusely. I could clearly see and feel the discomfort on my colleague’s face through the screen.
In that pivotal moment, I made a conscious decision. I halted the meeting, acknowledging the undeniable truth that a mother’s role takes precedence over any professional commitment.
Why did I stop? Because empathy unites us, going beyond the virtual workspace and making us more connected than ever.
In the age of remote work, the digital medium has become a platform where countless stories unfold, each unique and worthy of acknowledgment. And by doing so, we as leaders can play a crucial role in creating a positive work environment.
Leadership in the digital era is not just about achieving business goals; it’s also about understanding and embracing the intricacies of each person’s story. This is especially crucial in the realm of remote work, where the boundaries between personal and professional spaces blur.
But how does one strike a balance as a leader where the teams do not start taking undue advantage of such an approach?
You will find these 3 tips to follow while leading a WFH team:
1] Systems: Create online systems which are simple like shared Google docs and create categories of the kind of information and communication that needs to be exchanged. For example a daily report can be submitted by the team members. Create folders segregated for different customers/stakeholders that you are servicing which need to be updated on a daily basis.
2] Fixed Time Slots: Keep fixed multiple time slots during the day when you will be available for a meeting or discussion. That way team is also prepared and can manage their time accordingly. Google meet is effective. Generally speaking one may choose to keep cameras switched off and use it selectively.
3] Measure progress: Develop SMART goals and set parameters which can be reviewed by you on a weekly basis to keep a track of where is the team in terms of achieving results. It is easier to handhold the team when you have clearly defined goals.
While all the above may be put in place, it is still important for us as leaders to remain flexible and adaptable because of the multiple dynamics involved in a WFH environment. And situational leadership style as we all know works well.
As an experienced career coach, my aim is to instil this empathy-driven approach into the professional ethos, creating an environment where individuals can flourish not only as professionals but as whole human beings.
Let us create a workplace culture that doesn’t merely acknowledge the stories behind the work-from-home scenarios but actively celebrates them. Let us redefine success not only in terms of business metrics but also in fostering a nurturing space where careers and lives can harmoniously coexist. After all, the future of work is not just digital—it’s deeply human.
P.S: Please do share your stories of learning of how you manage work in a WFH environment.
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Best Wishes!
Sarabjeet Sachar
Seasoned Career Development & Leadership Coach
Founder & CEO, Aspiration