When coming home ain’t that simple

When Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau wrapped his Monday update with the words “For Canadians, it’s time to come home”, it felt like perfect pitch. But it’s not easy for everyone.
 
I’m proud of the global reach of this newsletter, and I’m glad to see leaders around the world taking this seriously. If you’ve never run a remote business, you've just faced a tough decision. 
Decision made, it’s time to support your team through a similarly difficult change. 
 
I’ve said repeatedly these last few days that remote work is not a technology challenge. But remote work will challenge your culture, interactions, and efficiency.
 
This edition is light on the technology. If you’ve read Trusting Technology, you’ll know that the tech is the easy part. We’re in change management mode now.

Business as usual

The good news is that many companies will return to business as usual on the other side of this transition. And that will happen sooner if you give your colleagues the time and support they need to make the shift. That means providing guidance and support with patience.
 
Matters are complicated, of course, by the additional need for help in adjusting to the reduced socialization. Or maybe it’s just different socialization. 

Resources

If you're still struggling with these decisions, my article on Cultivating Your Opinion to Make Better Decisions has just been published by the AMA.

Some resources I’ve found useful lately …

This viral article provides a rationale interpretation of the data we have and a risk calculator to help determine when you should move your business to remote.

 
Guidance in developing your approach — practices, policies and consensus materials.
 
Help for colleagues in adjusting—and increasing productivity.
 
Seth Godin has been pioneering online collaboration for decades. Here’s his list of simple principles .
 
Click here and let me know how you’re doing.

Trusting Technology is a book about forming ideas, exploring opportunities with customers and colleagues, and building your future together. Order your copy here.