"It all started in March. The whole of the Netherlands watched the first press conference about COVID-19. In the meantime, a few press conferences, measures, roadmaps and dashboards later, we are still living in an unreal world.
My last blog dates from May, two weeks before I went on maternity leave. I hoped that when I returned in September I would be able to organise beautiful events again, but unfortunately things turned out differently and we went into a partial lockdown at the beginning of October.
My colleagues and I work from home as much as possible, but I miss them.... Just like many others will miss their colleagues. That's why it's important to keep in touch during this period and especially to maintain the bond with the organisation/employees. How? I'd like to share a few tips that we apply:
1. Personal mail
During the first intelligent lockdown, I received a fun and original gift from my employer. Something small and personal, but with enormous value and potential: flower mail. It was a small package with flower seeds and a personal message. i want you to know that you are worth gold' with marigold seeds, 'I send you strength and health ' with the Red Sunflower and 'Ask you to enjoy the little things' with the Lathyrus.
Fortunately, I have green fingers and last summer I enjoyed a colourful garden.
2. Communication
On the work floor, you get a better idea of what is going on in the organisation and what colleagues are doing. Now that everyone works from home, communication can sometimes be a bit awkward and/or miscommunication can occur. Between colleagues, but also from the management to the employees. Make sure that, for example, general news, developments within the company, protocols and procedures are communicated throughout the organisation. Take your employees with you in your work and encourage them to inform each other about what they are doing.
3. Online leisure
I see a lot of online free bibos passing by. While enjoying a snack and a drink, the week ends and people catch up. Depending on the number of participants, things can get chaotic. Connections that get stuck, colleagues who want to say something at the same time, people who are talking to each other but you can't interfere. My tip? Organise something and take control. It does not have to take much time at all. Take stock of who is participating, deliver everyone's favourite drink and nuts by post or organise a small quiz. Perhaps Mark van finance is a vinyl DJ in his spare time and colleagues can submit requests. You could also put in X amount per person to buy a small present for the quiz winner
4. Video message
If your company normally organises a Christmas or New Year's get-together, it is guaranteed that there will be a small speech at that time. The drinks will not take place this year but this is often the moment to reflect on the results and the future. Why not record your speech (with a wink, attributes or cool drawing presentation) and share it digitally with the employees?
5. Livestream
Send a mysterious save the date by post with date and time when the employees have to be online on a specific page. Send a reminder on the day itself to make sure you reach everyone. Optionally, you can send a Christmas hamper or personalised glass. Address your employees live via a live stream and toast them to the new year. A kind of Christmas and New Year reception after all!
Would you like to bind your employees but do you have no time/idea/experience/motivation for the implementation? I would be happy to think along with you. On to an inspiring 2021!"
Published by: Veronique Schmitz