Remote work presents unique challenges, from managing distractions to optimizing productivity. But what if you could refine your workflow in a fun and engaging way? “This or That” questions are a great tool for sparking discussions, making better decisions, and refining work habits. Let’s explore how you can use them to improve remote collaboration and productivity.
Why Use “This or That” Questions in Remote Work?
“This or That” questions are simple yet effective in helping remote teams:
- Clarify preferences: Understand individual and team work styles.
- Improve decision-making: Choose tools and strategies that align with productivity goals.
- Enhance collaboration: Create a more interactive and engaging remote work culture.
- Encourage self-reflection: Identify habits that enhance or hinder workflow efficiency.
By incorporating these questions into daily workflows, remote teams can create a more balanced and effective work environment.
Key Categories of “This or That” Questions for Remote Work
1. Work Environment Preferences
- Home office setup or co-working space?
- Standing desk or traditional desk?
- Multiple monitors or single screen?
- Noise-canceling headphones or background music?
- Work with a pet or work alone?
2. Productivity Strategies
- Time blocking or task lists?
- Deep work sessions or frequent breaks?
- Mornings or evenings for focused work?
- Shorter workdays with high focus or longer, flexible schedules?
- Pomodoro technique or flow state working?
3. Communication & Collaboration
- Video calls or instant messaging?
- Scheduled check-ins or on-demand discussions?
- Group brainstorming or independent idea submission?
- Email updates or project management tools?
- Weekly team meetings or daily stand-ups?
4. Task & Project Management
- Kanban boards or to-do lists?
- Agile methodology or waterfall approach?
- Shared Google Docs or offline word processors?
- Task prioritization by deadline or importance?
- Manual time tracking or automated tracking tools?
5. Work-Life Balance & Well-being
- Fixed work hours or flexible schedules?
- Work in short bursts or longer, deep-focus periods?
- Taking midday breaks or pushing through?
- Remote fitness breaks or desk workouts?
- Digital detox after work or occasional email checking?
How This or That Questions Improve Workflow
1. Helps Remote Teams Align Work Styles
Understanding each team member’s preferred work habits fosters better collaboration. For example, if one employee prefers deep work sessions while another thrives on frequent check-ins, teams can adjust communication methods accordingly to ensure efficiency without disruption.
2. Encourages Productivity-Boosting Habits
By regularly evaluating choices, such as deep work vs. frequent breaks, employees can identify what works best for their productivity and make adjustments to their routines for maximum efficiency.
3. Reduces Miscommunication in Remote Settings
Choosing between structured check-ins or on-demand discussions can prevent unnecessary disruptions while ensuring alignment. Teams that prefer scheduled updates can avoid constant interruptions, leading to better focus and workflow management.
4. Creates a More Engaging Remote Work Culture
Using “This or That” questions in virtual team-building activities adds an element of fun while promoting meaningful discussions about workflow improvements. It fosters stronger connections among remote employees, creating a more engaged and motivated workforce.
How to Incorporate “This or That” Questions into Your Remote Team
1. Use in Virtual Meetings
Start team calls with a quick round of “This or That” questions to break the ice and encourage engagement. It makes meetings more interactive and provides insights into team members’ preferences.
2. Include in Onboarding Processes
New hires can answer workflow-related questions to help them integrate smoothly into the team’s work style. Understanding whether they prefer structured workflows or more flexible approaches helps managers guide them effectively.
3. Create a Team Survey
Gather anonymous feedback to assess preferences on work tools, communication styles, and productivity methods. This data helps organizations tailor strategies to improve workflow efficiency for the entire team.
4. Use in Performance Reviews
Encourage employees to self-reflect on their productivity habits by evaluating their choices over time. Managers can use responses to offer personalized guidance on improving efficiency and work-life balance.
Real-Life Example: How a Remote Team Improved Workflow with “This or That” Questions
A fully remote tech startup faced challenges in aligning their communication preferences. Some employees felt overwhelmed by constant Slack messages, while others wanted more real-time updates. To resolve this, the team conducted a “This or That” survey and discovered that most employees preferred scheduled check-ins over constant notifications.
As a result, the company implemented structured daily stand-ups and reduced unnecessary pings throughout the day. This small change significantly improved workflow efficiency and reduced stress among employees.
Conclusion
Remote work doesn’t have to be a struggle. By incorporating “This or That” questions, you can refine workflows, improve collaboration, and create a more engaging virtual work environment. Start using them today to make better decisions and optimize your team’s efficiency!
Also Read
How Remote Employee Monitoring Helps Identify and Prevent Burnout
