Crises have a way of making people feel that they’re alone and cut off from the rest of the world.

The COVID-19 crisis is unusual in that regard. Since the pandemic broke in late 2019, people all over the world have realised the truth in the old Michael Jackson song, “You are not alone”. It has reminded people of the value of relationships and the power inherent in human-to-human bonds. From family members and friends, to neighbours and even strangers – people everywhere are making an effort to remind each other that the crisis is temporary, humanity is permanent.

But such empathy and a sense of community does not need to be limited to the personal or social sphere. Why not be empathetic and compassionate at work as well?

Remote work has become part of the ‘new normal’ created by COVID-19. But it’s not easy for everyone. The enforced isolation means a lack of regular person-to-person contact and everything it entails: watercooler conversations, office grapevines, conference room meetings, team lunches, etc.

In such unusual times, is it possible to ‘be there’ for your co-workers?

Yes it is.

Here are 7 ways to be an empathetic remote co-worker during the COVID-19 crisis.

1. Put yourself in their shoes

Empathy refers to the ability to understand the feelings of another person, regardless of whether you share those feelings or not.

First, understand that even if you and your co-workers are facing the same threat, they may not be facing the same circumstances as you. They may be single parents struggling to juggle work with childcare. Or they may be living alone and far from family members. Show your peers you care by asking them what they are dealing with each day. Find out how they’re coping and ask how you can support them. They may be self-sufficient in terms of money and essentials. However, they may need emotional support and not know how to ask for it.

2. Encourage them to ask for help

Show your colleagues that it is ok to ask for help by being the first to do it yourself. For instance, you could reach out to them and say, “My productivity has really taken a hit of late. But touching base with co-workers really helps. Would it be okay if I checked in with you occasionally? You’d be doing me a favour!”

By asking others for help, we create a two-way communication channel that makes them feel safe to do the same.

3. If you know someone is really struggling, stay in touch regularly

People always appreciate people who take the time out of their busy schedules to say, “Hey, how are you today?” And when this is done without any ulterior motives (“When can I expect the report?”), they appreciate it even more. It doesn’t take long to drop a short message to peers, letting them know that even though they are ‘out of sight’, they are not ‘out of mind’.

You can always set up a longer call or virtual coffee meeting to discuss challenges or problems that need more than a text message or short email.

4. Don’t just offer advice or solutions; simply LISTEN!

Sometimes, all a person really needs is someone to listen to their fears or worries without jumping in with advice or suggestions. When you speak to colleagues, really pay attention to what they are not saying. Of course, this is not easy to do on a voice call. But on video meetings, you will be able to pick up on facial and body language cues that tell you more than their owner.

Ask leading questions like, “Are you okay? Would you like to talk about it?” And then follow up your offer by really listening. Don’t interrupt, don’t advise and definitely don’t lecture!

5. Be patient

Everyone is trying to adjust to a new way of living and working. And, it is inevitable that people will drop the ball occasionally and make mistakes. Instead of chastising them, take the time to understand why they made the mistake. Are they facing personal challenges? Lacking the resources they need to do their job? Feeling under the weather? Before jumping to conclusions, get more information. Then do what you can to help them cope better. And if you are a boss, make it known that it’s okay to not be perfect. You don’t have to accept absolutely poor-quality work, but if you make an effort to find the root cause, it’s likely the problem will be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.

6. Share resources

If you have hit upon an idea to take care of yourself or found some resources to help you work better, why not share them with your colleagues? Everyone is anxious, worried, scared or angry, so anything that can help them cope with their emotions and straitened circumstances will be appreciated. Whether it’s a website link or eBook, a book recommendation or even a list of fun indoor activities, share it with them and show them you care.

7. Find something fun to do/see/watch/experience

Isolation often means loneliness and a sense of disconnectedness from others. But it doesn’t have to. In fact, one of the best ways to alleviate loneliness is to have fun and laugh – together. The Internet is such an amazing medium to laugh and play together that you will soon forget that you are all geographically dispersed.

Take time out to host a virtual game like Housie. Share funny memes via chat. Watch a funny sitcom or movie together. When you bring a little laughter, fun and joy to your colleagues, you will brighten up your day as well.