How can you build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker?

1 Be proactive and intentional

One of the keys to building meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to be proactive and intentional about reaching out to others. Don't wait for someone to initiate contact with you, or rely on random encounters in the virtual office. Instead, make a plan to connect with people who share your goals, interests, and values, and schedule regular check-ins, calls, or meetings with them. Also, be clear about your purpose and expectations when you communicate with others, and express your appreciation and feedback.

2 Use various tools and platforms

Another tip to build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to use various tools and platforms to communicate and collaborate with others. Depending on the context and the goal of your interaction, you can choose from different options, such as email, chat, video conferencing, social media, or project management software. Each tool has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should consider the tone, frequency, and format of your messages. Also, be respectful of other people's preferences and availability, and avoid spamming or overwhelming them with too many messages.

3 Show your personality and authenticity

A third tip to build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to show your personality and authenticity when you interact with others. Working remotely can make it harder to convey your emotions, humor, and style, so you should try to add some personal touches to your communication. For example, you can use emojis, gifs, or memes to express your feelings, share some fun facts or stories about yourself, or show your hobbies or interests. Also, be honest and transparent about your challenges, achievements, and needs, and ask for help or support when you need it.

4 Engage in social and informal activities

A fourth tip to build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to engage in social and informal activities with your colleagues, clients, and partners. Working remotely can make you feel isolated or disconnected from the human aspect of work, so you should seek opportunities to bond and have fun with others. For example, you can join or create online communities or groups related to your industry, niche, or passion, participate in virtual events or workshops, or organize online games or trivia nights. Also, be respectful of other people's boundaries and cultures, and avoid topics that might be sensitive or controversial.

5 Seek feedback and offer value

A fifth tip to build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to seek feedback and offer value to others. Working remotely can make it harder to get constructive criticism, recognition, or advice from others, so you should actively ask for feedback and suggestions on your work, performance, or goals. Also, be open to learning from others, and acknowledge their contributions and achievements. Moreover, you should offer value to others by sharing your expertise, insights, or resources, helping them solve problems, or introducing them to new opportunities or contacts.

6 Nurture and maintain your relationships

A final tip to build meaningful professional relationships as a remote worker is to nurture and maintain your relationships over time. Working remotely can make it easier to lose touch or drift apart from others, so you should follow up and stay in contact with them. Also, be consistent and reliable in your communication and collaboration, and honor your commitments and deadlines. Moreover, you should celebrate and appreciate your relationships by sending thank-you notes, congratulatory messages, or gifts, or by acknowledging milestones or special occasions.

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?