Communicating and Leading Online With Empathy

Lesson One: Leverage Support Systems

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More than ever this past year we’ve had to rely on others. We have found ways to connect and engage more with others even if it had to be virtual. It is helpful that we continue to rely on each other as professional resources and as companions that enjoy each other‘s personal qualities. Chatting with colleagues frequently about work related or not work related topics can serve as a strategy for building relationships that contribute to a strong support system. Instructors should engage in reading blogs, newsletters, reports, etc. in order to stay educated and gain a broader perspective on what is happening in higher education.

Lesson Two: Break Away at Times From Our Devices

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In 2020, instructors had to learn to admit when they needed help or even needed a break away from their devices. This was not always easy to do and, typically, it is not a common practice in the workplace. Instructors have learned new ways to cope and adjust. Now they must take those new findings with them into the new year and beyond as they plan their strategy for their learning communities. It is important to understand that everyone is going through this year in their own way and that it’s important to give everyone their space to do what they need to do to navigate it.

Educators need to be patient with themselves as  they work through pandemic related frustrations. They should be patient with their family who is also struggling and working to overcome the present normal. They should be patient with their colleagues and peers who are also trying to figure their lives out and their jobs which have all changed on some fundamental levels.

Lesson Three: Understand Communication Challenges

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When it comes to connecting with students and learning communities, this past year we’ve all had to change how we communicate another very fast pace. There is evidence that, when leveraged effectively, social media, digital communications, and virtual tools were valued in 2020. Instructors should continue to pivot quickly, to translate in person interactions into digital engagement, support their learning community, and provide the critically needed transparency, and communication with empathy, efficacy, and clarity. Communicating how to teach and learn in an online environment is difficult to do in a way that informs without overwhelming. The situation is complicated and presents new challenges every day. It is important that instructors keep messaging simple enough for their audience to grasp, but with enough detail that they know what to expect next. Also, different stakeholders prefer different approaches so it’s important to cast a wide net. Instructors should use email, social media, use video in both, use podcasts, use whatever they have at their disposal.