Meet and greet

On the next six pages, we present extracts with key phrases and expressions you can use when working remotely.

4. The end

Chris: That was a good meeting. Thanks, everyone. As you all know, working from home has meant a huge culture shift for some of us, but it’s going well. Remember, as always, you can reach me any time between 8 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. for an impromptu chat. I’m here if you have any questions or concerns. Just message me if my status is green to set up a time. Have a good start to the week, everyone!

6. Essential information

Sam: What’s the most important thing that I should know?

Seb: There’s a core time when we all have to be available. Three days a week for four hours — that’s Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Outside those hours, Chris trusts us to get the work done. As for me, I’m at my desk from 8 a.m. every day.

9. Regular updates

Seb: Morning, Sam. I’m just checking in with you. How’s it going? Sam: Perfect.

Seb: Do you have everything that you need?

Sam: I’m quickly getting the hang of the tools. Are you happy with me sending a few ideas by email? Seb: You could upload them on to our team channel.

Sam: I’d prefer to run them by you first. I’ll send you a private message with my thoughts and contact you tomorrow, OK?

Seb: Great. If you need any help, let me know. Keep in touch!

11. Sound issues

Seb: You cut out there for a moment. Could you move closer to your microphone? And could you speak up?

Sam: …

Seb: I can’t hear you at all now. I think you need to unmute your mic. You’re still muted, Sam.

Sam: Oops. Sorry, I was on mute. Seb: Better, but I’m picking up a lot of background noise. I hate to ask, but have you got the TV on?

Sam: That’s my son in the next room. He’s at home from school today. I’ve got my headset on. Seb: I think you’re using your lap top speaker, not your headset.

13. I’m back

Sam: I think my son’s got FOMO. It’s not easy for him being at home. Seb: And it’s not easy for you working from home when the kids are around. I know from experience. Sam: Do you have any tips? I’m a sucker for productivity hacks!

14. Key tip

Sam: I find I get so easily distracted by all the notifications coming in.

Seb: You should customize your notifications. Mute all nonessential channels, and switch off all notifications if you need to focus on your work for longer periods of time. And set your status to “DND”, for “do not disturb”. That way, we know only to contact you if it’s urgent.

Sam: Thanks!

Seb: And set up reminders for important tasks. You can feel overwhelmed by all the pings, but there are ways to keep it under control.