Commentary: Managing change both personally and professionally in a virtual workplace

COLUMBUS, Ohio –

In a new commentary, Change Management Specialist Notasha Fant offers tips and resources to help employees navigate the virtual workplace.

The new landscape of civilian federal government employment during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 global outbreak looks strikingly similar to your house. That’s because it is, according to reports from the Defense Department’s civilian personnel advisors. In an effort to protect the health of the workforce, telework options have expanded to encourage social distancing while maintaining mission readiness and operational momentum.

Do you remember the first news reports about COVID-19? Images of China’s once heavily populated streets now empty. Did you ever think COVID-19 would impact us? I didn’t.

We’re now working in a virtual world. For many of us, our personal life has officially collided with our professional life. As a result, you may find it challenging to adjust to this new norm. Here are some personal and professional managing change tips to consider:

Personal

Stay connected! Chat, text, or webcam your family and friends.
Stay active! Take a good old fashion walk in the park or around your block.
Practice social distancing (aka physical distancing)! You can still socialize just at a distance.
Ask for help! Contact the Employee Assistance Program if you need help because you are not alone.
For more tips, read EAP’s latest blog “Routines, self-care becomes more important than ever.”

Professional

Stay engaged! Don't let personal activities distract you from supporting our Warfighter First.
Stay connected! Use virtual tools such as Skype and Defense Collaboration Services to stay in touch with your co-workers and supervisors.
- If you are not sure when and how to use these virtual tools, help is on the way!
- People and Culture will offer an Information Session on Skype at 3 p.m. on April 16. If you have questions, or would like to attend the Skype information session, contact Raymond Bibb at Raymond.bibb@dla.mil or 614-692-3518, to receive the meeting invitation/information. For more information, visit the MOTD.
- People and Culture will offer an Information Session on Defense Collaboration Services at 10:15 on April 17. If you would like to attend, contact Brenda Minnema at Brenda.Minnema@dla.mil to receive a meeting invitation. For more information, see the MOTD on How To DCS.
Stay up to date on IT readiness for COVID-19! Go to the J6 COVID-19 Readiness Page (CAC-enabled) for the latest information.
Stay engaged! Don’t let personal activities distract you from supporting our Warfighter First!
Be resilient! Don’t forget to check out our Resiliency page.