We have grown more intertwined with technology in the past 5 years alone, than in the past 50. We are the pioneers of understanding what it means to be human in the digital age. Constant progress and innovation push humanity to coexist in challenging new ways. Over the past few years, we have learned to incorporate technology into nearly every aspect of everyday life.
And now, seduced by the fear of missing out and the anticipation of fresh news, people check their mobile phones 150 times per day !
Ceaseless innovation comes with a stream of criticism of the alleged dehumanizing aspects of technology: distracting us from the present, the people around us, and our work. However, the same technology also simplifies our existence. Today, you can request a car ride, check news from around the world, shop, get in touch with people, make payments, and order a pizza, right from your smartphone while riding in that Uber you just ordered.
Here are 5 useful insights for utilizing and integrating technology into your organization to re-humanize the workplace in the digital age:
1. Alternate communication methods
What are you trying to communicate and what is the best method in this context?
Managers should carefully think about finding the best way to communicate between colleagues, according to the situation. Some messages are better delivered in person, while others are just a quick digital conversation. When unsure, instant message the person you would like to speak to and see if they can talk in person, over the phone, or via video chat.
2. The comforts of tech
Using technology provides more flexibility in the workplace and thus simplifies personal lives and improves communication. Today, we have the opportunity to hold meetings in different time zones and all from the comfort of our homes. Is it always necessary to schedule calls and video conferences in the office, when participants are scattered around the world? Take advantage of the mobile communication methods and consider the simple efficiency, reduced stress, and time saved.
3. A megaphone for your team
Eliminate “top-down” bureaucracy in decision-making by using digital communication tools. Tech can empower and engage employees in discussions and decisions that they are directly affected by, allowing for a more bottom-up approach to streamlined decision-making. Encourage employees to share their best practices, ask questions, or make suggestion on an organization-wide communication platform.
4. Go “old skool”
In leadership, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency. While digital communication methods are undeniably convenient, a lot of non-verbal communication may be lost. Unfortunately, the lack of these conversation cues can lead to misunderstandings and vagueness in conveying delicate thoughts. Don’t let the ever-improving methods of digital communication persuade you to take the easy path and avoid live and in-person communication.
5. Remember to disconnect
When balancing work and life, people usually choose one of two paths: “segmentors” keep their work and tasks separate from life, and “integrators” check work emails before going to sleep and as soon as the alarm goes off. Sometimes, despite an individual’s workflow preferences, the work environment leaves no choice for people but to simply follow either segmentation or integration to align with the expectations of the organization. Studies have shown that despite the fact that some people prefer to integrate work into their personal lives, segmentors are actually happier and maintain impressive productivity levels.
Many international innovators such as Apple, Alphabet, Facebook, Amazon, and General Electric are committed to digital humanism and to improving the human experience through technology. The Incenteev platform mirrors this approach by implementing a 4-step human-centered digital design to improve communication and motivation in the workspace.
With business tech innovation growing exponentially, it is imperative to prioritize the humans at the center of this digital experience, thus empowering the healthy and beneficial integration of technology into our lives.
Adopt the people-first approach with Incenteev!
