The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a significant shift in the way we work. Due to the need for physical distancing, many companies worldwide have adopted remote work policies. While remote work can be beneficial for employees, it can also present challenges for collaboration and communication in the workplace. In this article, we will explore the impact of extensive remote work on collaboration networks and communication practices using research carried out by Microsoft and other organizations.
The shift in work patterns due to the COVID-19 pandemic
The pandemic has forced companies to adopt new ways of working. Many employees have been required to work from home to limit the spread of the virus. In response to this shift, companies have had to adapt to new work patterns. Research conducted by the ongoing Survey of Working Arrangements and Attitudes (SWAA) shows that, so far in 2021, the average number of paid days worked from home per week is 1.4 (or 28% of the workweek).
Microsoft conducted research on the effects of extensive remote work on collaboration networks and communication practices
Microsoft’s company-wide work-from-home policy during the pandemic allowed researchers to examine the impact of extensive remote work on employees’ collaboration networks and communication practices. The study examined the communication networks of approximately 61,000 employees across a six-month period. The study found that remote work led to a decrease in synchronous communication including scheduled meetings and audio/video calls, and an increase in asynchronous communication such as email and instant messaging.
The influence of network structure and communication modes on worker performance
Existing research indicates that worker performance is influenced not only by the network structure and strength of ties but also by the communication modes used for collaboration. In an office, workers can rely on face-to-face communication and frequent interactions to develop strong ties and maintain networks. However, remote work presents challenges in developing these relationships, which can impact worker performance.
There has been a decrease in synchronous communication and an increase in asynchronous communication with remote work.
The study conducted by Microsoft showed a significant decrease in synchronous communication and an increase in asynchronous communication with remote work. While email and instant messaging can be useful for conveying information quickly, they can also lead to information overload, which can be difficult for employees to manage.
Benefits of connections to various parts of an organization’s network
For individuals, connections to various parts of an organization’s formal and informal network are beneficial as they can serve as conduits for information flow. However, weak ties which are essential for cross-disciplinary innovation that drives growth can become problematic in hybrid workplaces.
Importance of dedicating time for team collaboration in remote or hybrid workplaces
Former Accenture Managing Director Kevin Singel frequently recommends dedicating an hour (or half an hour) each day to working with subordinates on teams or Zoom calls, as if they were seated together in a cubicle. This approach can help employees maintain strong ties and improve their communication networks, leading to better performance.
Concerns about proximity bias arise when evaluating employees based on face time
Evaluating employees based on face time can lead to proximity bias, which is a growing concern as more organizations embrace hybrid or remote work arrangements. Managers must be aware of this bias and ensure that performance evaluations are based on objective measures rather than face time.
Incorporating performance evaluations into weekly one-on-one meetings with supervisees can help address challenges
To address these challenges, managers can incorporate performance evaluations into the weekly one-on-one meetings already scheduled with their supervisees. These meetings can allow managers to provide feedback on employee performance, set goals, and identify areas for improvement.
The shift towards remote work brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes to the workplace. While remote work presents challenges in collaboration and communication, managers can take steps to mitigate these issues. By dedicating time for team collaboration, ensuring objective performance evaluations, and maintaining ties across the organization, managers can help employees thrive in hybrid or remote work arrangements.
