Last Updated on November 29, 2023
Working from home presents a certain set of challenges in maintaining a strong company culture. Company culture has been researched and strategized for many decades, but only in the past few years has remote working become common. This spanner in the works has created a whole new strategy, but that’s not to say it’s not possible.
It’s essential to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose, even when physical distances separate the team. Here are effective strategies to ensure your company culture remains strong in a WFH environment.
Great Communication Software
The cornerstone of any thriving remote work culture is well-thought-out communication software. Investing in top-tier employee communication software is crucial because it acts as a bridge, connecting team members spread across different locations. Whilst they may not physically be next to each other, chance encounters and quick conversation needs to be possible for information to flow. Features like instant messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing are absolute musts for keeping everyone on the same page.
Another critical tool is employee digital signage, which offers a dynamic way to share company news, updates, and reminders. This technology ensures that important information catches the attention of your team, regardless of where they are working. It helps reinforce company values and keeps everyone aligned with the corporate goals and ethos.
Regular Virtual Meetings
Regular virtual meetings are also needed to keep the team connected. It’s not just about the software, but a culture of having meetings that aren’t just about work; they should also include casual interactions and social elements to replicate the office atmosphere. Encourage open discussions, team-building activities, and informal catch-ups to strengthen bonds and promote a sense of belonging. For many, it’s the social element of the workplace that keeps them happy and productive.
Creating a Shared Vision
Creating and reinforcing a shared vision is more critical when working remotely; it needs to be done in an explicit way, as opposed to what may occur more naturally in an office environment. You need to work harder in communicating the company’s goals, achievements, and challenges.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Flexibility is really the essence of what workers like about WFH. Recognize that employees have different home environments and responsibilities. Offering flexible work hours and acknowledging individual needs can significantly boost morale and productivity, strengthening the company culture. However, there’s a balance to strike, and you’re already risking fragmentation by being remote. So, ensure there are some periods when all workers are online.
Employee Wellness Programs
Promoting employee wellness by offering virtual wellness programs like online fitness classes, meditation sessions, or workshops on work-life balance is a fairly easy (though not always cheap) way to boost engagement. These initiatives show that the company cares for its employees’ well-being, reinforcing that this is the place to be, because you are looked after.
Encourage Collaboration and Innovation
Encourage collaboration and innovation through online platforms where employees can share ideas and work on projects together. This not only creates better teamwork but also keeps the creative juices flowing, ensuring that the physical distance doesn’t hinder innovation and collaborative spirit.
In conclusion, maintaining company culture in a WFH environment requires a balanced approach. It’s important to not go to the extreme by not knowing when workers will appear, but it’s also important to recognize flexibility as a core benefit for workers. Ultimately, communication is the biggest puzzle to solve, where chance encounters and information flow must be fluid.
