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How to Implement a Virtual-First Environment

I learned a new term.

The term is “virtual-first”.

What does it mean?

“Virtual-first” refers to a business model or organizational strategy where remote work is the default mode of operation.

Nothing replaces in-person time to build strong and collaborative teams.

However, within this model, in-person interactions or office-based time is also highly valued. It takes place when beneficial.

Now, this makes sense to me.

Yes, we can all acknowledge that people want flexibility and autonomy to choose when and where they work.

However, nothing replaces in-person time to build strong and collaborative teams.

In fact, I was recently talking to one of my clients about an upcoming team off-site that I am facilitating for him. He is the CEO of an organization that is not meeting its financial goals.

Consequently, it’s been a challenging year for this CEO and his leadership team.

However, this executive understands the value of a “virtual-first” culture. He knows how invaluable in-person time is for the success of his business.

Even during a financially challenging year, he has not given up monthly in-person meetings with his Executive Team, which is scattered throughout Canada and the US.

He has not given up on quarterly in-person meetings with their larger management team.

To really execute a “virtual-first” culture properly, you have to remember the benefits of in-person time, which includes:

  1. Full engagement: In the office, you capture people’s full attention – no more multitasking during meetings!

  2. Better listening: Active listening is easier in person, making team members feel truly heard and understood.

  3. Efficient decision-making: Tough decisions that need a personal touch can be much easier to handle face-to-face.

  4. Stronger bonds: Casual chats about hobbies, families, or weekend plans build deeper connections among colleagues.

  5. Increased empathy: In-person interactions naturally foster empathy and understanding.

  6. Spontaneous collaboration: Those “water cooler” moments can spark unexpected ideas and collaborations.

  7. Effective problem-solving: Sitting together makes brainstorming and problem-solving more dynamic and productive.

  8. Psychological safety: Being together creates an environment where people feel more comfortable contributing.

  9. Smoother communication: No more tech glitches or awkward Zoom silences – just natural, flowing conversations.

  10. Increased joy: Let’s face it – we laugh more when we’re together, and that’s great for team morale!

So, since the “virtual-first” world of work is here to stay for most of us, approach it strategically.  

Consider what type of work makes sense to do virtually and when you must embrace the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create together in ways that just aren’t possible through a screen.

Vanessa Judelman

Vanessa Judelman is an author, coach, and sought-after leadership expert. Over the past 20 years, she has created a proven formula to develop results-oriented leaders who feel empowered and confident in their job. Vanessa is the author of Mastering Leadership: What It Takes to Lead in Today’s Fast-Paced World. Order your copy here.

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