Find time for chitchat with the team

Making time for chitchat in virtual meetings is more important than you might think. It’s a chance to transform a routine "How are you?" into a moment of genuine connection. Instead of the usual “Good, thanks,” share something personal, like a recent project you're proud of or a hobby that’s been capturing your attention. This approach shows your team that you're not just colleagues but individuals with lives outside of work.

Casual conversation isn’t just filler — it’s the foundation of workplace friendships. Research indicates that discussing non-work topics is crucial for building these relationships.^[1] So, consider dedicating a portion of your meetings to open-ended chats or integrating fun icebreakers. Tools like Airspeed offer creative ways to break the ice asynchronously on Slack.

These moments of personal sharing can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, especially in remote conditions, and lay the groundwork for a supportive, friendly work environment.