by What do Patrick Swayze, a US presidential inaugural ball, and deuteranopia have in common?
My teammates!
I began my role as a communications manager at Ascension last month. It’s been an incredibly positive experience. And It’s been a long time since I’ve had to learn the ropes of a new organization. I’ll admit, it’s frustrating at times not to know something–whether it’s a who, what, where, when, or why. But I’ve been continually impressed by my team members, who have shown themselves to be great resources for me to turn to.
Starting a new job in the time of COVID is a surreal experience if you’re not prepared properly–I would imagine. With the move to remote work for most roles that can afford it, learning to connect with your colleagues can be challenging. I’d been working from home for about 15 years in my previous roles at Accenture. The teams I led were global, so I worked to build relationships with them virtually. Though nothing can replace the gravitas of in-person meetings and collaboration, the explosion of virtual collaboration tools gets you as close to it as is possible.
As I began to settle into my role and get more comfortable with a landscape that is becoming a little more familiar every day, I found myself wanting to get to know my colleagues better in the way that usually unfolds organically when working with them in person. Since we don’t currently have the luxury of in-person meetings, networking, or social gatherings, I settled for a virtual team lunch with a couple of stipulations:
- No work talk
- Send me 2 truths and a lie
It was so much fun to connect with them personally, learning about their lives and discerning their truths from their lie. It was an hour rife with laughter and friendly conversation. There are many documented benefits for why laughter and fun in the workplace are impactful–essential, even. One article I found from Lifehacker even suggests it makes you more productive. I believe it.
I’m really excited about the work I’m doing and the people I’m doing it with. I’m even more excited to learn more about the work and the people! I would encourage everyone who reads this (both of you) to take the time to invest in getting to know your teams and colleagues, whether it’s because we can’t meet up in person right now or because your team is spread out over the country or world. Personal connection is something that fuels me–at work and home. I don’t’ think I’m alone in that need. The work I’m doing is important, but getting to know the people I’m doing it with lends a context that can’t be generated any other way. And it raises my game to the next level.
So, what are you waiting for? Ping a colleague and schedule some virtual water cooler talk!
