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Come Out of Hiding: Three Strategies to Stay Visible While Working Remotely

by CCWC | Sep 9, 2021 | Career, Productivity

Remote work opportunities offer several perks for employees. For starters, you can save time and money because you don’t have to commute or buy expensive lunches. And you can customize your work environment and wear comfortable clothing.

While there are dozens of advantages to working remotely, there is a potential downside. It can be challenging for you to remain visible to your colleagues and supervisors.

As a remote (or hybrid) employee, you must make an extra effort to increase your exposure within your organization. Want to learn how you can stay on top of mind while working from the comfort of your home? Apply these three strategies to help you stay visible while working remotely.

1. Keep the lines of communication open.

Effective communication is essential for success in any relationship. This is especially true when you are working with team members to meet deadlines and achieve organizational goals.

Working away from your office can lead to isolation and diminished bonds with your colleagues if you don’t keep the lines of communication open. Apply the following tips and strategies to maintain a strong connection with your team members.

Be transparent with your colleagues. Share important information as soon as it becomes available. If you are a leader, encourage your employees to do the same.
Ask your boss or employees for feedback.
Maintain a respectful tone when communicating via email, video chat or telephone.
Be consistent and check in with your colleagues each day.

2. Maintain social connections with your colleagues.

It is easier to maintain social connections with your team in the office than it is while working from home. Not only do strong work relationships build a sense of togetherness, but they can also foster trust and reduce feelings of isolation. Here are a few things you can do to connect with your colleagues.

Schedule virtual coffee talks with different colleagues or clients each week. Use this time to discuss projects, mentorship opportunities and professional goals.
Engage in video chat sessions instead of phone calls as much as possible.
Once a month, buy lunch for your team. Go to the office and enjoy it with them.
Create virtual coworking spaces. Set up your video group chat feature and put it on mute. Ask your team members to do the same. Complete your projects while your coworkers complete theirs. If your colleagues have a question, they can chat with you about it directly.

3. Ask for new projects and offer new ideas.

A recent report by the Society for Human Resource Management revealed that 72% of supervisors prefer that their subordinates work from the office. As a remote employee, it is in your best interest to demonstrate that you can be productive away from the office.

One way you can show your value is by asking your boss for additional responsibilities. Find innovative ways to make a positive impact on your organization. Help other colleagues meet their deadlines.

Working from home doesn’t have to make you invisible to your colleagues or your boss. By implementing these strategies, you can build new skills and increase your visibility from the comfort of your computer.

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The following resources can help you maintain your social connections and boost your visibility while working from home.