Communicating effectively sans Water Cooler moments
In a virtual talk, Karen Plum, Director of Research & Development at AWA, discussed the importance of water cooler moments and relationship building in the context of remote work. Plum shared key insights from extensive academic research spanning over two decades, shedding light on the factors that contribute to effective team performance.
Water cooler moments, traditionally understood as informal conversations sparked by chance encounters, have evolved in the age of virtual work. Plum emphasized the value of these moments and their impact on team productivity. While acknowledging their potential benefits, she emphasized the importance of informal interactions in fostering connections and sharing among team members.
AWA’s research, conducted in collaboration with the Center for Evidence-Based Management, identified six critical factors strongly correlated with team performance. Among these factors, social cohesion, trust, and information sharing emerged as essential components that are susceptible to damage in remote work settings.
Trust, considered foundational to the other factors, plays a crucial role in successful teamwork. Plum highlighted the need to differentiate between cognition-based trust, which focuses on competence and expertise, and affect-based trust, which is built on emotional connections. Understanding these nuances allows individuals to make informed decisions and avoid relying solely on gut reactions.
Information sharing was emphasized as a critical aspect of team performance. Effective communication, especially in remote work scenarios, plays a pivotal role in fostering trust and maintaining social cohesion. Plum noted that teams tend to share less when working virtually, highlighting the need to be intentional about nurturing relationships and avoiding fractures caused by neglecting social dimensions.
Plum further emphasized the significance of planning interactions to ensure clarity of purpose and maximize outcomes. By considering goals, participants, urgency, and desired outcomes, teams can avoid unproductive meetings and promote meaningful engagement. Taking responsibility for trustworthiness and relationships emerged as a key theme, emphasizing the need for individuals to proactively foster connections and engage in substitute water cooler moments.
The research presented by Plum underlines the importance of water cooler moments and relationship building in virtual work environments. Informal interactions, trust, and information sharing are vital elements that contribute to effective teamwork. By being intentional about communication, fostering relationships, and taking responsibility for building trust, teams can create positive and productive work environments, even in remote settings.
Plum’s talk provides valuable insights for individuals and organizations seeking to navigate the challenges of remote work. By recognizing the significance of water cooler moments, fostering relationships, and prioritizing effective communication, teams can enhance collaboration, productivity, and overall team performance.
Watch the full video here https://youtu.be/nY-Lz03qLVc
Featured image courtesy: Unsplash.com
