As our company gathered on WebEx last week, I couldn’t help but think how wonderful it was to see so many new faces here at Skillsoft. It’s an exciting time to be in corporate digital learning, particularly given today’s business climate. As organizations continue to focus on business transformation in a VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity) world, they are turning their attention to building high-impact, resilient organizations that can withstand unprecedented challenges. And that all comes down to people.
At Skillsoft, we offer thousands of courses that help people build the skills they need today and tomorrow. And, they can take a course, listen to an audiobook, watch a video anywhere from any device — so, learning doesn’t have to be put on hold just because the workforce is remote or hybrid. In fact, since the pandemic, learning consumption has increased exponentially.
But, something’s missing.
When we no longer sit across from each other or partake in impromptu hallway conversations or cafeteria runs, the human connection can get lost. How do we build stronger, more agile teams that can handle the inevitable challenges that come with uncertainty when we’re still separated?
Strong bonds are essential for strong teams. So, we must continue to try new and inventive ways to build them both within our own departments and across the whole organization.
So, here’s my challenge: Host a Coffee Break. (Or tea or maybe even something a little stronger, depending on your preference!)
Find someone you don’t know well … or several someones if you prefer a group. Invite them to a virtual “Coffee Break.” Since so many people are looking for new ways to connect, you shouldn’t have any trouble sparking a great conversation. We implemented a similar program with customers early in the pandemic and the feedback was positive; many found it a great way to connect without the need to have “business-focused” conversations. After all, we’ve been through so much over the past 22 months and it’s human nature to commune and compare notes.
If you’re struggling with what to talk about, start by focusing on something everyone can relate to: working remotely …
- Zoom, Teams, or WebEx?
- What surprising things have you learned about working remotely?
- What’s the funniest thing you’ve experienced while working at home? On video?
- How do you keep from feeling alone?
- Is anyone here a work from home “guru?” What advice can you share?
Or, if you really want to get to know people, ask them to share more personal stories …
- What’s the one movie you can watch over and over (and over)?
- If you had a theme song that played whenever you entered a room, what would it be?
- When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
- Do you believe in ghosts?
- Cats or dogs?
- What’s your favorite way to pass time?
And, if the conversation runs dry (it probably won’t), you can always borrow the questions I ask all the guests on my podcast, The Edge …
- What have you learned about yourself throughout the pandemic?
- How are you applying what you’ve learned, in the flow of your work or life?
- And, looking ahead, what advice would you share, based on what you’ve personally been learning and applying?
Taking a Coffee Break together (even a virtual one) is a wonderful way to get to know new colleagues. And, it’s also a fun way to learn even more about people you already know. Either way, it can help you build those important relationships that Zoom/WebEx/Teams make so challenging.
Let the conversations commence!