Team Support & Wellbeing Program - Scenario 4, Loneliness in Hybrid/Remote Teams

Scenario 4: Loneliness in Hybrid/Remote Teams

Challenges of a dispersed workforce can create overwhelming feelings of isolation. Here are some practical tips for building well-being and creating connection in hybrid and remote work arrangements, specifically addressing the complexities of mixed on-site and remote teams:

• Virtual team meetings are an immediate way for hybrid workers to feel included. Interactive Q&A features with opportunities to contribute equally are useful. Rotate meeting times to accommodate different schedules. Remote workers may well organise their day around child care, family commitments, even second jobs. 

• Adding an informal element to group meetings helps break the ice and allows the hybrid worker to get to know team members more which promotes inclusion. Formal one to one meetings can isolate and demoralise hybrid workers. There is even potential to add non work related meetings to encourage informal interaction and build camaraderie across all locations.

• "Buddy" Systems or Peer Support Networks are useful in encouraging wellbeing of employees. Pair remote and on-site employees together for informal check-ins and support. This can foster a sense of connection and provide a point of contact for those working remotely.

• Encourage interactive company days out, taking geography into consideration. It may be possible to get hybrid and remote workers together possibly once a year. Company softball events are a good example. Perhaps an inter departmental quiz night.

• Have a peer who is responsible for coordination of work site visits by the remote worker. Ensure that this peer is on site when the individual visits. The peer should ensure that the remote worker is introduced to colleagues and a work space has already been made available. It can be isolating for a remote worker turning up in an uncommon environment, not knowing where to go and who to speak to.

As with all areas of staff wellbeing and the feeling of inclusion and value are paramount so regular contact with supervisors and managers is very important, with acknowledgment of the work carried out too. 

Using platforms such as WhatsApp may be discouraged by many for unnecessary company gossip. However, using such a platform allows remote workers to share experiences which in turn may be highlighted with peers/buddies or line managers.