Overview of remote connection principles

- Whether you've been working from home for your entire career, or just made the transition away from a traditional office, odds are, you've experienced some feelings of disconnectedness with your coworkers. It's natural. Many equate face-to-face interaction with deeper personal connection. And certainly there's some value of being able to shake hands with people, and look them in the eye. Yet I found that a personal connection can occur with anyone. I've had many clients who I've coached over the phone for years. Despite never having seen each other on video or in person, we've had many meaningful, deep, personal connections. This experience isn't unique. Powerful workplace relationships can be created when two things exist, mutually shared experiences and appropriate emotional connection. Even when separated by thousands of miles, you can create these experiences and emotions by following six basic principles. First, serve others. Make it your top priority to help others succeed and be happy. This creates professional bonds faster than anything else you could do. Number two, be yourself. Strong relationships are built on a foundation of appropriate honesty. This means becoming an authentic communicator so people get to know the real you. Third, be friendly. The words you use, and the tone you choose can either build relationships or damage them. Cultivate the skill of becoming friendlier. Fourth, deliver results. If you want others to trust and like you in the workplace, you must have a reputation of reliability. Fifth, vary your channels. Different communication channels are best suited for different situations. By using a variety of communication tools, you create a variety of shared experiences. And sixth, have fun. Occasionally create experiences that don't just deal with work, and are social, positive, and enjoyable. Now that you have an overview of the principles, let's dive in and take a closer look at how we can apply them while working from home.