How can you communicate with empathy when working remotely?

1 Choose the right channel

The first step to communicate with empathy is to choose the right channel for your message. Depending on the context, tone, and urgency of your communication, you may want to use different tools, such as email, phone, video call, chat, or social media. For example, if you want to express appreciation, recognition, or feedback, you may want to use a more personal and expressive channel, such as video or phone. If you want to share information, updates, or instructions, you may want to use a more formal and concise channel, such as email or chat. Think about the purpose and the recipient of your communication, and choose the channel that best suits them.

3 Express yourself clearly

The third step to communicate with empathy is to express yourself clearly and respectfully. When you communicate remotely, you may have less opportunity to convey your emotions, intentions, and expectations through your body language, voice, and facial expressions. Therefore, you need to use clear and concise language, avoid jargon and slang, and provide context and examples. You also need to use positive and respectful words, avoid sarcasm and criticism, and acknowledge the other person's feelings and opinions. When you express yourself clearly, you can also build trust, credibility, and rapport with your remote colleagues.

4 Adapt to different styles

The fourth step to communicate with empathy is to adapt to different communication styles and preferences of your remote colleagues. Different people may have different ways of communicating, such as being more direct or indirect, more formal or informal, more analytical or emotional, more task-oriented or relationship-oriented. You need to be aware of your own style and how it may affect your communication with others. You also need to be flexible and adjust your style to match the other person's style, or to find a common ground. When you adapt to different styles, you can also enhance your cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion.

5 Follow up and follow through

The fifth step to communicate with empathy is to follow up and follow through on your communication. When you communicate remotely, you may have less visibility and accountability than when you work in person. Therefore, you need to make sure that you communicate regularly, update your progress, and deliver on your promises. You also need to check in with your remote colleagues, ask for feedback, and offer support. When you follow up and follow through, you can also demonstrate your reliability, professionalism, and commitment.

6 Show appreciation and gratitude

The sixth and final step to communicate with empathy is to show appreciation and gratitude for your remote colleagues. Working remotely can be isolating, stressful, and challenging, and you may not have the same opportunities to celebrate, socialize, and bond with your colleagues as when you work in person. Therefore, you need to make an extra effort to recognize, appreciate, and thank your colleagues for their work, contributions, and achievements. You can also send a personal note, a gift, or a shout-out to show your appreciation and gratitude. When you show appreciation and gratitude, you can also boost your morale, motivation, and engagement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?