Introduction:
The rise of remote work has been one of the most significant changes in the modern workplace, and it has only accelerated since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. While remote work has many advantages, one of the biggest challenges is communication. Video calls have become the primary means of communication for remote workers, but they can be time-consuming and often seem unnecessary. In fact, a recent study found that remote workers feel that half of all video calls could have been replaced with a simple email. In this article, we will explore the reasons for this sentiment and how it affects remote workers and companies.
Video Calling: The Remote Worker’s Perspective
Remote workers have a unique perspective on video calls since they are the ones who have to attend them. According to a study conducted by Asana, nearly 60% of remote workers believe that too many video calls are wasting their time. In addition, half of the respondents felt that most these kinds of calls could have been replaced with an email. This sentiment was even more pronounced among workers in the Asia-Pacific region, where 65% of respondents felt that most of them were unnecessary.
There are several reasons why remote workers feel this way. Firstly, video calls can be time-consuming, especially if they involve large groups of people or require extensive preparation. Secondly, video calls can be emotionally exhausting, especially if they involve difficult or controversial topics. Finally, video calling can be a source of stress, as remote workers may feel that they need to be “on” all the time, even when they are not feeling their best.
Video Calling: The Company’s Perspective
From the company’s perspective, video calls have several advantages. They allow teams to collaborate in real-time, facilitate communication, and build stronger relationships between team members. However, video calls can also be a drain on company resources, especially if they are not used effectively.
One of the main reasons why companies rely on video calls is that they feel they are more effective than other forms of communication. However, this assumption is not always true. According to a study conducted by McKinsey & Company, executives spend nearly 23 hours per week on email, and they are still not able to keep up with the volume of messages they receive. Therefore, companies need to be more strategic in their use of video calls and ensure that they are only used when they are truly necessary.
Finding a Balance
The key to success for remote teams is finding the right balance between different communication methods. While video calls have their advantages, they should not be used as a substitute for written communication. Emails and chat applications are often more efficient for routine communication, while video communications should be reserved for more complex or sensitive topics.
To achieve this balance, companies need to be more intentional in their use of communication tools. They should provide guidelines for when to use video calls, ensure that all team members have access to the same tools, and encourage feedback on the effectiveness of different communication methods.
Conclusion:
Remote work has become a fundamental part of the modern workplace, and video calls have become a critical tool for remote teams. However, remote workers feel that many of these calls could have been replaced with a simple email. Companies need to find the right balance between different communication methods to ensure that they are using their time and resources effectively. By providing guidelines, encouraging feedback, and being more strategic in their use of communication tools, companies can create a more productive and fulfilling remote work