Enhancing Remote Work Connections with Watercooler

Remote work brought productivity but also disconnected us from colleagues, highlighting that remote work's challenges go beyond logistics. In-person interactions, crucial for a positive work environment, have diminished.

The lack of casual interactions shifts our perception of coworkers, making relationships more transactional and increasing stress. This imbalance can erode team cohesion, posing challenges many managers.

The Water Cooler Effect

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Research from Psychology Today highlights the "Water Cooler Effect" emphasizing that informal, spontaneous conversations significantly contribute to team cohesion and overall productivity. These casual interactions, often missing in remote work settings, play a crucial role in maintaining positive team dynamics and a supportive work environment.

Introducing WaterCooler

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WaterCooler is a Microsoft Teams app that enhances remote work by fostering informal, spontaneous conversations, akin to in-office 'watercooler moments.' MIT research also supports the importance of group cohesion for productivity, often achieved through these informal interactions.

How It Works:

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- Select your interests.
- Define your availability for WaterCooler breaks.
- Join a 15-minute WaterCooler break with coworkers who share the same interest
- Build relationships and re-energize.

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