4 Practices For Effective Communication Post-Pandemic

Remote working did bring its multiple challenges, and several of them around communication. It also presented a huge opportunity to redesign the way we communicate. As we gradually return to our workplaces, it’s important that we have some intelligent communication PRACTICES. These can help us transition to the new normal. Here are our recommended 4 practices for effective communication post-pandemic:

#1. You Need To Communicate More Than You Think

As a leader, have you noticed a big jump in meetings and calls with your team? Compare it to when you were working in the same physical workspace. At the time of the crisis, this was born out of necessity, just because you needed to know what was going on! 

As you transition, one thing is clear: staying in touch with your team is important. Helping them reduce their fear, keeping the uncertainty in check, addressing challenges, co-creating solutions, is going to emerge as the key. Your team needs to hear from you more than you think! Do not confuse it with micromanaging. Staying in touch with your team frequently, acknowledging their needs and feelings, is a practice worth building in the new normal.

#2. Flexi-Communication Is The Key 

Even with employees gradually returning to their offices, there are many organizations that will offer the dual possibility of allowing working from home, as an option. Hence this will require you to set down communication practices that work well, irrespective of the location of your employees. 

Look into investing in work-from-home equipment for your team and use the right technological tools. Additionally, build in flexibility, adjust meeting timings, co-create accountability without micro-managing. Hence this will not only improve communication but will also help build a better relationship with your employees.

#3. Get To The Point  

In the past, how many meetings have you attended where simply showing up was enough? Did you notice that only a couple of people actually made any points? But the pandemic changed that. Video communication required people to be more assertive. It needed them to speak with greater clarity. To put their point across quickly (even from those employees whose opinions you normally wouldn’t hear). 

There is no time for indirect communication and water cooler conversations! With the transition back to offices, it’s important to keep focused conversations going. So much time and effort can be saved!

#4. Emotionally Intelligent Feedback  

Taking a few steps to be more strategic about how you deliver constructive feedback can change the way it is received. Firstly, asking questions rather than offering solutions makes for more productive conversation. Secondly, offering appreciation as much as you offer criticism (or more!) is key. Additionally, listening without an agenda! Thirdly, being clear about the change you desire makes it easier for everyone to understand what you are looking for. Being sensitive to emotions, communicating with good intention, can go a long way in building a great amount of trust. 

In conclusion, the pandemic has changed people’s personal and work lives quickly and drastically. With all the uncertainty that lies ahead, people are looking to their leaders more than ever for guidance and support. As a leader what you say and how you convey it will be critical. It will play a significant part in determining how your organizations perform during these difficult times and after. So, try these 4 practices that will ensure effective communication post-pandemic. Make every conversation count! 

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