Stop Pinging Your Co-Workers “Hi”

Picture this: You’re in the midst of a hectic day, juggling multiple tasks and trying to maintain your focus. Suddenly, a notification disrupts your flow on Slack or Teams. Your heart skips a beat — is it urgent news, an important update, or perhaps a vital project detail? You eagerly check, only to find a simple “Hi” or “Hi, how are you?” greeting from a co-worker, HR, or even your boss. Excitement or dread?

In the fast-paced world of remote work, where every ping demands attention, these seemingly innocent greetings can stir a mix of emotions. Let’s delve into the impact of these digital hellos and explore alternatives for a more productive and stress-free work environment.

The Internal Struggle: How People React When You Just Ping Them “Hi”

Imagine you’re knee-deep in a complex task, feeling the pressure of a looming deadline, when suddenly, a message appears — just a “Hi.” That moment of distraction can be the difference between meeting and missing a deadline, and it’s not exactly the morale boost you were hoping for.

Peers Versus Superiors: The Unequal Impact of Greetings

Now, think about the sender. If it’s a peer, you might brush it off as an attempt at friendliness. However, if it’s a message…