Navigating Remote Work
An Interview with CASE’s Executive Director, Joanna Goode
With more and more organizations developing remote or hybrid working environments, the landscape of work is changing. With these changes come new opportunities and new challenges.
In a discussion with Joanna Goode, Executive Director at the Canadian Association for Supported Employment (CASE), we explored how remote working experiences can be successful with the right facilitation and with consideration of potential obstacles.
CASE’s work model is and always has been fully remote from coast to coast. Occasionally, the organization finds opportunities for in-person events for planning or conferences, but most of the work is conducted remotely.
Joanna was excited to share the benefits of the remote model.
“Productivity, retention and wellness are the rewards of a system that supports better work-life balance.”
Better Work-Life Balance
Productivity, retention and wellness are the rewards of a system that supports better work-life balance. Remote work allows staff to set up their own spaces, eliminate unwanted commute time, and create flexible work times.
Joanna emphasized that work-life separation can be a challenge if not kept in check. Remote workers require a higher level of discipline to turn things off when the workday is over.
Challenges of Working in Different Time Zones
As with any work model, there are some challenges.
At CASE, teams are geographically dispersed across the country in different time zones that can span up to four and a half hours. Special care must be given to schedule meetings and communication that considers the location of all team members.
Some positions require more standard work hours than others. Leadership, for example, may require longer standard hours to improve availability. Some specific roles may also need availability within specific time frames to service stakeholders. All of this involves committing to better communication about business needs.
Consider Your Platforms and Routines
Platforms for communication and conversations are essential considerations. Emails and messages may be efficient in some scenarios. Virtual platforms offer a more in-person feel for some formal and informal meetings.
Joanna noted that it can be hard to be cohesive when you’re not in the same space. She suggests carving out opportunities for connection: “Rituals, routines and rhythms keep remote teams connected and organizational culture strong.” As an example, CASE’s online platform has dedicated channels for wellness and informal sharing. Group celebrations are recognized and collectively attended virtually. Virtual dance parties and fun and playful interactions, in addition to formal work processes, contribute to a feeling of positivity, support and connection.
Cameras are on to create a more interactive environment during virtual meetings, while respecting every staff member’s choice to do what works best for them. Teams enjoy shared leadership in meetings, so everyone feels engaged through ownership of presentation and participation.
Remote Work Can Enhance Accessibility
The remote model assists with inclusion and accessibility by allowing customization of the office space and scheduling in ways that are more natural and serve employees personally. Team members work in more comfortable home environments that can allow for more privacy when disclosures must be made or accommodations requested from supervisors. Today, many people’s homes are already optimally set up for virtual work, so employers have little left to do to replicate an office setting.
Isolation and Technology Can Be Barriers
While remote work offers many positive outcomes, it can also be isolating. Care must be given to maintain connections. Another consideration is that remote work requires a certain level of affluence. Suitable physical space and access to technology and broadband internet can become barriers.
While remote work offers many positive outcomes, it can also be isolating. Care must be given to maintain connections. Another consideration is that remote work requires a certain level of affluence. Suitable physical space and access to technology and broadband internet can become barriers.
“COVID taught us that many jobs we didn’t think could be done remotely, in fact, can be and can pose a lot of benefits. Remote or hybrid environments are not a good fit for everyone. Absolutes can be damaging."
Best practice is still to identify what will work for your team and your organization, and seek solutions that fit all parties.
Written by Chantelle Painter, a consultant and business and relationship development professional with over 20 years’ experience in corporate retail and non-profit collaboration. Chantelle is skilled in Relationship Building, Coaching, Retail, Customer Satisfaction, Driving and Measuring Engagement, and Policy Development.