The importance of being “together”

From a traditional perspective, unity depended on us being in the same place, simultaneously, and with the same purpose. Before, a meeting place referred to a material point (the office, the cafeteria). Now, in some cases, that place where we meet is mixed. An event takes place in the same virtual space, but the time of the day may vary depending on the time zones. While the physical attendance model uses all of our senses when involved in activities, the challenge of maintaining remote attention is extraordinary.

One of the possible consequences of not effectively addressing this situation could be the need for more participation in events of mixed attendance. Suppose the remote connection feels more like an obligation than enthusiastically embracing this opportunity. In that case, distance can lead to disinterest, apathy, reluctance, and, at worst, even contempt for the company’s activities.

The executive leadership should pay particular attention to these circumstances. Not addressing these realities may affect the employee’s morale; therefore, the entity’s objectives are also affected. Eventually, everyone suffers, mainly if job dissatisfaction affects individual and team performance.

Using recent celebrations as an example, we can analyze four fundamentals of a mixed attendance party: Technology, Attraction, Enthusiasm, Meaning, and Integration.