By Peter Davidson
Virtual work is slowly becoming the norm, and an increased number of people are working from the comfort of their own homes. Loneliness may be one of the few negative aspects of working remotely. Without the daily interactions, meetings, and griping that occur in a traditional work place, loneliness can creep in and even affect the work of a remote employee. Just as advances in technology have made it easier than ever to work remotely, there are many tools that can ease loneliness in virtual employees.
Skype
Skype is a fun way to interact with people from all around the world. Whether you want to speak with your boss, hold a meeting with just a few people, or simply say “hello” to your friends during the work day, Skype is easy to use and can make communication much easier. Interaction with others is just a click away, and as long as both sides have a good internet connection, it is possible to chat almost instantly.
Skype lets user’s video chat, providing a large screen so that you can clearly see the person on the other end. Another advantage is that calls can be initiated and stopped whenever you want. Instead of spending long periods of time on the phone with others, you can simply chat with your friends for 15 to 20 minutes each day. Doing so may even increase your productivity at work.
UberConference
As the name implies, this is a great tool for holding meetings and for keeping in touch with your coworkers. One benefit of UberConference is that it allows users to easily schedule or join calls. If you prefer, the program can even call you! Another advantage is that this program is compatible with all types of phones, from flip phones to smart phones, as well as land line phones.
With so many different options for connections, it is easy to see how this program can help ease feelings of loneliness in virtual workers. Given the choice between reading text in an email and spending time talking with someone face to face, many workers would feel less lonely by simply seeing someone else on the other end of their video chat. With UberConference, you can experience the intimacy of such one-on-one meetings and stay in touch with your boss throughout the day.
Time Zone Synching
Dealing with different time zones, whether you are a freelance worker who is dealing with clients in another part of the country, or part of a larger global network where large time differences pose a challenge to workers, time zone synching can be a great resource. By synching the different time zones, it is easier to find a time when everyone can talk. The more you are able to speak with others when you must, the less likely it is that you will feel lonely.
When it comes to time zone synching, there are several different programs to choose from. Your choices will vary depending on the features you desire, as well as what your coworkers can use on their computers. Just a few hours of overlap each day ensures that communication will be a priority, and you may find that you are more motivated to complete your work.
iDoneThis
Feeling connected with coworkers doesn’t have to involve meeting with virtual programs or sending text messages throughout the day. iDoneThis is a program that tackles one thing that many virtual workers find lacking, and that is having a set area where workers can communicate on a routine basis and explain what they have been working on, what needs attention next, and other collaboration items.
The close-knit feeling of working together with others towards a similar goal can greatly reduce feelings of loneliness in a virtual worker. With programs such as iDoneThis, it is easier than ever to share what each member of the team is working on and note how the team is moving together towards the same goals. This program stands out from the rest due to its features, such as emailing everyone on the team to ask what they have accomplished that day. Everyone simply replies with their specific answer, and the next day, everyone’s answers are sent out via email so the team can stay informed.
It is no surprise that virtual workers can, at times, feel lonely and in need of social interaction. It is crucial for workers to find a way to keep in touch with friends, family members, or coworkers on a consistent basis. If most of the office is working remotely, there are many different tools that can make it easier to stay in touch and even hold meetings without collaborating in a standard office setting. Having a social outlet goes a long way in terms of preventing feelings of isolation and depression, which can set back a worker tremendously.
Peter Davidson works as a senior business associate helping brands and start ups to make efficient business decisions and plan proper business strategies. He is a big gadget freak who loves to share his views on latest technologies and applications.
