How to Build Professional Relationships Remotely 

As we venture into unknown territory, working from home has become the new normal for many companies. Many of your employees may feel isolated and recent hires may feel out of place at their new job without the ability to make connections with their co-workers. 

For some people, their favorite part of going to work is to engage and collaborate with co-workers because they have the potential to become life-long friends. People are also innately social beings, therefore having professional relationships enhances the work-life experience. 

Having these types of connections often leads to higher productivity, engagement, and promotes a positive well-being in people. Professional relationships pave the way to a well-balanced work-life culture, which can translate to higher job retention rates. 

It may be difficult, and it may not be the same as in-person, but you can still form an environment for your employees to build professional relationships remotely. 

Remember that it’s the little things that matter. Simply making yourself accessible to others on a regular basis and checking up on people can go a long way. Reach out to your co-workers to chat privately in between work sessions, especially if it seems like someone might be having an off day during the video call. 

Don’t forget to take opportunity of those general life updates as well! We may not always enjoy these, but they are a great way to engage with one another if we actually share real updates and it will encourage others to do the same. Following up with your co-worker’s life updates and asking questions like you would in-person will be appreciated, as it’ll show you listen to them and that they are being recognized and cared for. 

 Being thoughtful and showing emotion to your peers can be just as important in a remote workplace as it is in person. Basically, try to treat your professional connections online how you would in the office! 

If you may be thinking you might need some extra assistance in this department, reach out to VALLETTA and we’ll help your business find ways to boost communication and build professional relationships remotely! Connect with one of our team members during a scheduled consultation to get started!