The switch in the workplace got more popular when the pandemic first started in 2020. It dictates a need for switching the workforce to a virtual place known as “at home working”. Online working poses so many challenges in terms of understanding, as it increases the risk of misunderstanding.

When we communicate, we give many attributes that aid in delivering a message. These attributes are the tone we use when we talk, the tone can set the type of conversation, as most meetings require a serious tone. Another attribute is the physical cues or body language which aids in the understanding of the message or task. It is easier to include more questions when meeting with your coworkers and supervisors face-to-face, rather than forming emails to ask for interpretations.

Digital communication can cause miscommunication and misunderstandings which can negatively affect the workplace, making a toxic workplace arise.

How valuable is the human connection at work?

We, as humans, require a human connection in our daily life, as we live and function in a society as it is our way of living. As I discussed before, working face-to-face misunderstandings would be less likely to arise. The nature of the flow of conversation back and forth with questions and inquiries is different from emails which limits it, and delays responses from emails.

The essence of human connection builds a positive environment. The human connection is crucial to building the basis for trust, teamwork, and thriving within the company for growth seeking. The human connection cannot be replaced by any alternative. It is also beneficial to help you solve a problem within your work by reaching out to colleagues with whom you built a solid connection over time. Such a connection does not occur with online working. Forming a web of connection is the goal, getting to know your colleagues and managers would help you expand your work and perspectives.

Conversations at work can also foster creativity. While conversing with a colleague, you get a new perspective from them. This can foster creativity in the sense that you can find new ways to work on projects differently. Creativity is needed to stand up in a changing world, as new ideas are valued more than ever. Sometimes some digital communication is needed for quick or emergency meetings. Therefore, digital communication should not be abandoned altogether for the sake of pure human face-to-face connection. It should be used to aid and facilitate work when certain circumstances ask for digital communication.

How to maintain relationships at work?

Maintaining a healthy relationship at work takes time and effort. It can simply build from remembering a birthday, using simple encouragement words, or drinking coffee together.

– Maintain relationships by asking about your colleagues’ weekends or plans.

– Ask about your colleagues’ feelings and check on them from time to time.

– Remember key and distinct information related to your colleagues’ lives.

– Invite them over for coffee or sit in a café.

Written by: Farah Barakat