You're used to the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the job as a manager. However, staying connected with coworkers and maintaining the ties you've developed over time might be challenging while working remotely. Making virtual communication feel more like in-person hallway talks is one method to counteract this gap.

First and foremost, let us discuss why this is significant. Working from home may mean missing out on casual, impromptu interactions in the office. Even if you work from a particular place, these casual talks help you feel connected to your coworkers and develop a feeling of community. 

Furthermore, these opportunities for small conversations can lead to valuable insights, ideas, and partnerships that would not have occurred otherwise.

How Do You Replicate That In-Person Connection In Your Virtual Communications? 

The solution is straightforward: pick up the phone. Instead of sending an email or instant message to a coworker, phone them for no particular reason. This impromptu call doesn't have to be a long, scheduled meeting; it may just be a brief catch-up to touch base and connect personally.

But Why Is Calling Preferable To Emailing? 

You can hear someone's tone and inflection when you call them, which might help you judge their mood and reply appropriately. You may also ask follow-up questions to make the dialogue more natural and fluid. These discussions assist in creating trust and fostering stronger connections, both of which are necessary for cooperation and communication.

So, How Frequently Should You Make These Calls? 

There is no such hard and fast rule, but a reasonable rule of thumb is to contact a coworker at least once a week. Thus, it can be a brief check-in call to see how they're doing or discuss the project you're both working on. The idea is to include it in your daily routine so that you remember to reach out and stay connected.

Use video conferencing to make virtual interactions feel more like hallway chats when feasible. Instead of simply calling each other, utilize a video-call application to see each other's faces; this can create a personal connection and make the conversation more genuine.

It Is All About Developing Relationships

When you try to connect with your peers, you demonstrate that you appreciate their time and are concerned about their well-being. Working from a distance may lead to more robust, productive connections and cooperation.

Having a good relationship with your coworkers also creates a sense of belonging, which increases your respect and esteem for your workplace threefold, growing morale.

Furthermore, communicating with your peers will demonstrate to your bosses that you are deeply involved in the advancement of the workplace and can significantly boost your chances of promotion.

In conclusion, as a manager, you must remain connected with your colleagues and retain the connections you've developed over time. You may establish a feeling of community and build trust with your peers by making virtual communication feel more like in-person corridor talks. 

Thus, pick up the phone, make impromptu calls, and use video conferencing tools to create and maintain relationships, even if you're working remotely.