ABE HEWARD is a software engineer based in Arizona, USA – and such a close friend that I call him family. His company was primarily in-person before the pandemic, 100% remote during, and is currently navigating hybrid. Leadership has mandated that most people come into the office three days per week: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. In this interview, we discuss the hybrid mandate’s effect on the workforce.
The fabulous Miro, a virtual whiteboard, has sponsored this podcast episode. Visit miro.com/superpowers to get your three free whiteboards today.
Miro is an infinite online whiteboard where you can visualize every idea, project, or workflow with the help of ready-made templates and tools. It’s built for teams to feel like they’re sitting side-by-side, even working in different places.
Remote and hybrid collaboration tips from Abe Heward:
- CREATE A COMFORTABLE WORKPLACE – Abe’s goal with his setup is to get into states of flow as quickly as possible:
- Multiple monitors gives plenty of real estate for reference material.
- Comfortable, ergonomic chair.
- Adjustable standing desk to allow for movement.
- Microphone is on a moveable stand so that he can move it towards or away from him.
- Microphone is plugged into the headset to hear himself better. This keeps his voice relaxed in conversations.
- TREAT PEOPLE FAIRLY – Offering some people options you don’t offer others can create an atmosphere of unfairness and absurdity.
- MAGIC DOESN’T HAPPEN AT THE WATER COOLER – Serendipity is overrated. We are spending a lot of energy, time, and money, hoping that a serendipitous moment will pay off.
- TRUST THAT PEOPLE WILL BE PROFESSIONAL & DO THE RIGHT THING – Mandates are unnecessary and generally do not work well. People want to decide for themselves. Trust that people will be professional and do the right thing for the company.
- CURATE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA USE FOR HAPPINESS – Decide what makes you happy and ensure that your social media supports your mental health.
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