Tag: return to work

As we navigate the modern work landscape, the traditional 9-to-5 model is rapidly losing its relevance. Enter asynchronous work—a transformative approach that transcends time zones and fixed schedules.

I recently chatted with Paige Goldstein, a self-proclaimed digital nomad and co-host of the Fill Your Sol podcast. We chatted about her flexible style of working and how employers could increase productivity by working asynchronously. Watch our full chat here:

This blog delves into the myriad benefits of working asynchronously, offering insights and practical strategies to help teams excel in this innovative framework.

The Hallmarks of Asynchronous Work

Flexibility and Autonomy

The hallmark of asynchronous work is the unparalleled flexibility it provides. Employees are liberated from rigid schedules, allowing them to choose work hours that align with their personal lives. This flexibility fosters a healthier work-life balance, reducing stress and preventing burnout.

Boosted Productivity

Asynchronous work taps into individual productivity peaks. By empowering employees to work when they’re most efficient, tasks are completed with greater precision and speed. This personalized approach maximizes output, benefiting the entire team.

Global Talent Pool

Geographical barriers vanish. Companies can now access a global talent pool, hiring the best minds regardless of location. This diversity drives innovation and brings a wealth of perspectives to the table.

Fewer Meetings, More Focus

Traditional work environments are often disrupted by frequent meetings and interruptions. Asynchronous work minimizes real-time meetings, allowing employees to concentrate on deep work. Communication becomes more intentional, conducted through written updates and collaborative tools.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Asynchronous work necessitates clear, concise communication. Without the luxury of immediate clarification, messages must be thorough and well-articulated. This practice hones overall communication skills, promoting transparency and accountability.

Elevated Job Satisfaction

When employees control their schedules and integrate work with personal activities, job satisfaction soars. A harmonious work-life balance boosts morale, fostering long-term commitment and loyalty to the organization.

Cost Efficiency

Organizations can realize significant cost savings with asynchronous work. Reduced need for physical office space cuts expenses related to rent, utilities, and supplies. Employees also save on commuting, contributing to a more sustainable business model.

Results-Oriented Culture

Working asynchronously shifts the focus from hours worked to results achieved. This meritocratic approach rewards performance based on output and quality, creating a motivating environment where contributions are valued.

Implementing Asynchronous Work: Practical Tips

Define Clear Expectations

Success in asynchronous work hinges on clear expectations. Set defined goals, deadlines, and communication protocols to ensure alignment. Regular updates and reviews help adapt to evolving needs.

Leverage the Right Tools

Invest in tools that facilitate seamless asynchronous collaboration. Platforms like Slack, Trello, and Google Workspace streamline communication and task management, supporting a cohesive workflow. And of course, Kadence is your ultimate partner in aligning your teams, so you can find those important moments to collaborate.

Build a Trusting Culture

Trust is the foundation of working asynchronously. Leaders must trust their teams to manage time effectively and deliver quality work. This trust fosters a positive, empowered work environment.

Provide Training and Support

Equip employees with the skills needed for asynchronous work. Offer training on time management, communication, and collaboration tools. Continuous feedback and support ensure ongoing improvement.

How Kadence Enhances Asynchronous Work

Transitioning is seamless with Kadence, a comprehensive hybrid workplace management software.

Streamlined Coordination

Kadence offers tools for desk booking, room scheduling, and visitor management, optimizing physical space usage. Its intuitive interface helps employees plan their workdays, whether at home or in the office.

Efficient Communication

Kadence supports asynchronous communication, reducing the need for constant real-time meetings. Teams can share updates and collaborate at their own pace, minimizing disruptions and enhancing focus.

In-Depth Analytics

Kadence provides workplace analytics to inform decisions about space and resource management. These insights help optimize operations for a hybrid work model.

Seamless Integration

Kadence integrates with existing tech stacks, ensuring a smooth transition to asynchronous work. Whether using project management software, communication platforms, or calendars, Kadence enhances your team’s efficiency and effectiveness.

A Final Thought

Asynchronous work is a game-changer, offering benefits from increased productivity and job satisfaction to cost savings and global talent access. Embracing this approach can lead to a more flexible, inclusive, and efficient work environment. Tools like Kadence support this transition, providing the necessary infrastructure to thrive asynchronously. Explore Kadence and take the first step towards a more productive and balanced future.

Helen Attia

For distributed teams, building a strong team culture is more important than ever. Creating meaningful connections among remote and in-office employees can seem challenging, but it’s achievable through small, intentional actions.

I recently sat down with Managing Director of People Sorted, Michelle Hartley. She’s a HR wiz and has supported hybrid companies in different sectors connect and build a resilient company culture. Check out our full conversation where she offers some tips on what HR Managers can implement to support their teams.

One of her key recommendations was to look past grand gestures like company away days to bring people together. The best leaders are those who implement small and frequent displays of appreciation and connection that makes employees feel like they are acknowledged and belong to the company. These “micro moments”, as she calls them, are simple yet powerful ways to foster a positive and inclusive team culture.

Here, we’ll explore nine micro moments that can transform your team’s dynamics and strengthen your company’s culture.

1. Half Agendas

Half agendas are an innovative approach to meetings that can significantly enhance team culture. Traditional meetings often have packed agendas, leaving little room for spontaneous discussion. By intentionally leaving half of the agenda open, you create space for creativity, brainstorming, and addressing unforeseen issues. This approach not only makes meetings more engaging, but also empowers team members to contribute their ideas and feel heard.

For instance, imagine a product development meeting where the first half is dedicated to updates and the second half is open for discussing new ideas or solving current challenges. This flexibility can lead to more dynamic and productive discussions, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared ownership among team members.

2. Unstructured Time

In a remote or hybrid work setting, unstructured time can be a valuable opportunity for team members to connect on a personal level. Unlike structured meetings, unstructured time allows for spontaneous interactions, much like the casual conversations that happen in office break rooms.

Encourage your team to schedule “virtual coffee breaks” or “water cooler chats” where there’s no set agenda. These informal gatherings can help build relationships, reduce feelings of isolation, and create a sense of camaraderie. For example, a 15-minute virtual coffee chat once a week can provide a much-needed break and a chance to catch up with colleagues in a relaxed setting.

3. Thank You Notes

Never underestimate the power of a simple postcard or thank you note. In our digital age, receiving a physical note can be a delightful surprise and a tangible reminder that someone appreciates you. Sending personalized thank you notes to team members for their hard work, achievements, or just to say thank you can make a significant impact.

For example, a manager might send a handwritten note to a team member who went above and beyond on a project. This small gesture can boost morale, reinforce positive behavior, and show that you value their contributions.

4. Social Media Shoutouts

Social media shoutouts are a modern way to recognize and celebrate your team’s achievements publicly. Highlighting individual or team successes on your company’s social media platforms not only acknowledges their hard work but also showcases your company culture to a wider audience.

Imagine posting a shoutout on LinkedIn for a team that completed a major project ahead of schedule. This public recognition can boost team morale, enhance your company’s reputation, and encourage other employees to strive for excellence.

5. Surprise Deliveries

Everyone loves surprises, especially when they come in the form of surprise deliveries. Sending unexpected gifts to your team members’ homes can create a sense of excitement and appreciation. These can be anything from a box of gourmet cookies to a personalized gift that reflects their interests.

For instance, a surprise delivery of a wellness kit including a scented candle, herbal tea, and a stress ball can show that you care about your team members’ well-being. These thoughtful gestures can enhance team spirit and show your employees that they are valued.

6. Virtual Celebrations

Celebrating milestones and achievements is crucial for maintaining a positive team culture. Virtual celebrations can be just as effective as in-person ones when done right. Whether it’s a birthday, work anniversary, or a project completion, taking the time to celebrate can strengthen team bonds.

Host a virtual party with fun activities like trivia games, virtual happy hours, or themed dress-up days. For example, you could organize a virtual celebration for a team member’s birthday, complete with a digital birthday card signed by the whole team and a cake delivered to their door. These celebrations create memorable moments and reinforce a sense of community.

7. Digital Badges

Digital badges are a modern and effective way to recognize and reward employees for their achievements. These badges can be displayed on internal communication platforms or professional networks like LinkedIn. They serve as a visible acknowledgment of skills, accomplishments, and contributions.

For example, awarding a “Project Management Pro” badge to a team member who successfully led a challenging project can boost their confidence and encourage others to aspire to similar achievements. Digital badges not only provide recognition, but also motivate continuous learning and development.

8. Professional Development

Investing in professional development shows your team that you care about their growth and future. Offering opportunities for training, attending conferences, or taking online courses can enhance their skills and career prospects.

Consider setting up a professional development fund that employees can use for courses or certifications relevant to their roles. For instance, a marketing professional might use the fund to take an advanced digital marketing course. Supporting professional development not only improves individual performance, but also contributes to the overall success of the team and company.

9. Mental Health Support

Supporting your team’s mental health is crucial, especially in a hybrid work environment where stress and isolation can be prevalent. Offering mental health support can make a significant difference in their well-being and productivity.

Provide access to resources such as counseling services, mental health days, and stress management workshops. For example, organizing a monthly webinar on mindfulness and stress reduction techniques can help your team manage their mental health effectively. Showing empathy and understanding towards mental health challenges creates a supportive and caring work environment.

Coordinate Team Time with Kadence

Building a strong team culture in a hybrid work environment doesn’t have to be daunting. By incorporating these nine micro moments into your routine, you can create a positive, inclusive, and dynamic team culture. These gestures not only enhance team morale and productivity, but also foster a sense of belonging and community.

Remember, it’s the small, consistent actions that build a strong and resilient team culture. Start implementing these micro moments today and watch your team thrive. Offset these all with regular in person team days. With Kadence, you can reserve days and spaces for teams together. And with our Smart Suggestions tool, you can find out when your colleagues are going into the office so you can book a desk nearby. Find out more about Kadence by seeing what it can do for your team.

Helen Attia

As Head of People and Partnerships at Kadence, one of the things I ask myself most regularly is “how do we better communicate as a team?”.

Operating as a distributed team, we are spread all over the world. For that reason, it’s really important for us to feel like we don’t sacrifice on connection and cohesion as an organization and group of people.

In a recent chat with Steve Cockram of GiANT Worldwide, I got into the topic of how to stay connected as a hybrid team — and why it’s so important for companies navigating a new era of work.

This is a summary of the ideas and insights that came up in our conversation. Please also check out my full conversation with Steve where he goes into even more detail of how to stay connected as a hybrid team.

Hybrid work: no longer just a nice to have

Hybrid work is still seen as a “nice to have”.

That means that leaders and managers acknowledge its importance for the health of their business, but they continue to forget to take it on board with regularity and intention. Basically: it falls to the bottom of the pile.

It’s high time we started to view hybrid work as an urgent, must-have solution that runs at the core of a company’s business and people objectives.

Hybrid is about much more than setting up a desk booking system and telling people to come into the office two days a week.

It’s about having an actionable strategy in place to ensure that your people are getting adequate relational connection (as put by Steve) — the lifeblood of emotional health.

But what does “adequate relational connection” actually entail, and why is it so important?

Building trust and relationships beyond the screen

The pandemic steered the course of professional work firmly towards screens.

From a situation where real life communication was the norm — working in an office five days a week — suddenly employees found themselves relying predominantly on Zoom calls (from home!) for social interaction.

The change happened overnight — and it somehow tricked us all into believing video calls are a like-for-like replacement of real meetings.

The truth couldn’t be more different.

As human beings, we rely deeply on in-person communication and interaction for our well-being. It’s this relational connection that builds trust and makes us feel happy and fulfilled — like we belong in a community.

Without this enormous part of us being addressed, no number of Zoom calls can fill the gap. Put very simply — if we’re not getting enough quality time together, our wellbeing, sense of community and productivity will all suffer.

HR teams are generally well aware of wellbeing and the need for their people to stay happy and healthy. And yet few have managed to connect the dots between hybrid, home working and emotional health and wellbeing.

Perhaps it’s time to flip the script on what it means to meet up in work contexts.

Rethinking time together

So how, as a leader, do you go about putting into practice what you know about the importance of in-person meeting for your team’s overall health?

According to Steve, staying connected as a hybrid team is all about reimagining what it means to meet up as a team.

A lot of the time, business owners are thinking about how to make in-person meetings more efficient and productive. As though the time spent together needs to showcase everyone “working harder” or “achieving outcomes”.

But Steve argues that it’s actually more important to view these social gatherings as exactly that — social gatherings.

Whether it’s quarterly, monthly, or weekly all-hands meet ups at the office — companies should start thinking about providing platforms for social connection with no strings attached.

The time you spend with your teammates together is a precious resource, and it shouldn’t be wasted on work tasks that could easily be done remotely.

The objectives therefore have to be different — less focused on direct business objectives and more geared towards deepening relational connection and trust.

The best part? The more you develop a concrete strategy for ensuring your team are connecting and communicating on a regular basis, the more you’ll see your business and bottom line flourish as a result.

This isn’t the first time the world of work has undergone monumental changes.

When the industrial revolution brought millions of people from rural work settings to cities, it took governments and organizations a long while to understand how to build legislation that kept people healthy and happy.

The same is happening with hybrid work now.

Managers and business leaders are trying their best to navigate a new era of working, but most are still yet to realise that the puzzle is incomplete without one large piece – people.

Time and time again, we see how the health of teams — as measured by the teams themselves — proves to be the most helpful metric on the dashboard of a CEO. It correlates directly with their likelihood of success.

So don’t cut short those lunches, coffees, team dinners. Enjoy them. They’re all part of deepening connections and trust between your employees that feeds back into the wellbeing of your business.

When people flourish, companies flourish. And at Kadence, our mission is to ensure you stay connected with your hybrid team.

GiANT Worldwide is a global leadership consultancy that helps thousands of leaders from companies of all sizes — from startups to Fortune 500s. Their innovative “5 Voices” self assessment tool gives leaders a better indication of their own natural leadership voice, from “Pioneer” to “Connector” and “Nurturer”. Once a leader has discovered their own voice, they become more self-aware; a better communicator; a quicker decision maker, and ultimately a better manager.

Helen Attia