On 20th Feb last year, we published a blog on Coronavirus: An Employers guide. At that point, we really didn’t expect that in that year after much heartache and so many challenges for so many, we would still be writing to you in the middle of the ongoing pandemic. The only bright light is the vaccinations that are taking place. So, what do we know about how this has changed how we work and how we can create/maintain a company culture that keeps everyone together? 

Last week (10th Feb) we ran a virtual team building session with the dual purpose of introducing new members of staff to the team, helping them to get to know a bit about each other in a fun way, while at the same time introducing factual information to support staff members in maintaining their mental and physical health. An integral part of the session was a tie-in to the company values. One of the key aims was to support the reinforcement of the company culture for existing team members and help new staff get to grips with company values. Think of it as a day of training with those coffee break chats that we all need. So, if you're a business that is still relying on remote workers, how do you maintain and grow your company culture during lockdown? 

Provide learning moments 

One of the biggest hurdles that many businesses have faced during lockdown is how to train employees and offer them continuous professional development. After all, we all need a goal to work towards. So, providing an opportunity for your team to get together online and share a learning moment is an excellent way of reinforcing your company culture.  

An educational opportunity doesn’t even need to be directly related to their job role. One of our team was chatting to a friend last week who worked from home since the start of lockdown. Her company has invested in diversity and inclusivity training that any employee can sign up for. Having the chance to learn about something different whilst being in a virtual environment with people from across the business was described as "enlightening and invigorating".   

Another option is to fully utilise employee strengths, so different team members can direct and deliver different parts of educational programmes, providing themselves with a CPD opportunity. This could also allow for collaboration between workers who may never normally interact. 

Focus on connections 

Taking the time to explore what motivates and inspires team members is also a great way of growing company culture. With a captive audience of people who have undoubtedly been exploring their interests during lockdown, providing a chance for them to share their interests can build relationships. Has someone discovered a love of board games? Have team members become more active and started running? Over the last year, some businesses have created virtual Friday evening pubs, online coffee breaks and weekly catchups with random colleagues, recreating the social side of work that many of us are missing.  

Foster a culture of certainty  

One thing we should all remember is that it currently isn't business as usual, none of this is normal, and many of us are still working in survival mode. Companies should work on a culture of reassurance, being honest and open, and keeping employees in the loop. It's well worth considering increasing the number of team meetings and business updates to avoid feelings of isolation.  

Give your team a reason to smile 

Whether you’re holding a virtual event, recognising an achievement, reminding employees of the positive impact they’ve made on the business, or are sending them a funny mug with some teabags, we all need to make sure that our team are smiling and that should be a part of company culture even when there isn’t a lockdown.  

If you would like some help in creating and building your company’s culture, or simply want to invite the Dakota Blue team for a virtual pint, get in touch.