Let’s work together
Finding it hard to focus? Not getting stuff done? Distressed? Working at home alone is less than optimal. You’re not alone – this is hard for all of us. During this time, I am coordinating informal “work parties,” open to anyone who wants to join along. My colleague, Dale Davison, is collaborating with me on this endeavor.
Join us via videoconference. We’ll offer support, encouragement, accountability and a friendly face while we each work independently on our own tasks and projects. This is our attempt to offer something positive during a very difficult situation.
Here’s how it works:
Participation is open to anyone who wants to join us. We ask that all participants accept the following terms:
- You will treat all participants with respect, and honor their privacy and confidentiality. For participants who are clients, we will not disclose how we know you. It’s fine for you to share how you know us, if you like.
- Privacy: Your name will be displayed however you logged into the videoconference – You may not be anonymous.
Questions/Answers:
What happens during the work parties?
We’ll come together for a total of 1-2 hours, depending on our availability and how many show up. This agenda is loose and may change.
- Open (5-15 minutes) We get oriented, share goals and offer support.
- First work session (about 45 minutes) We all get to work on our individual tasks and projects. Some of us may remain visible on camera, while others may be working off camera. It’s up to you. This is a mostly quiet time, with some ambient noise in the background. It’s kind of like working in a library.
- For those who want to be more interactive, we will open a separate “breakout room,” where you can talk with others while you work.
- Break (5-10 minutes) We come back together to share how things are going. Some may opt to stop and leave the meeting, while others use the time to take a break and regroup.
- Second work session (about 30 minutes) If we still have remaining participants, we resume our independent work.
- Final close (5-15 minutes) We come together for some final sharing and then we end the meeting.
How much does it cost?
During the COVID-19 disruption, payment is optional. If you choose to pay, you may pay any amount you wish, via a link that will be included in the email announcements.
How will I know when the work parties are happening?
All work parties will be announced via email, along with the instructions for joining and optional payment. Scroll to the bottom to find the instructions for opting in to the email announcements
How can I RSVP?
RSVPs are not required. Just come when you can.
How should I prepare for a work party?
It helps if you can identify what you want to work on; however, if you are truly stuck and have no idea where to begin, that’s okay. We’ll help you find a way to get started.
How do I join the work party?
The announcements will have instructions for how to join, via Zoom videoconference platform. It’s free to you and most people like Zoom very much, once they get the hang of it. The first time you join, allow yourself a few extra minutes and follow the prompts to allow the Zoom app to download to your computer or device. You only need to do this once.
What if I don't want to download the Zoom app?
You can use Zoom via the web, or just dial in to one of the Zoom phone numbers, which will be provided. If you don’t use the Zoom app, you will not have the full range of features, but you should still be able to participate.
Can I arrive late?
You can join late, or leave early. If no one shows up after 10-15 minutes, we will end the work party.
What if I don't want to participate in discussions?
That’s fine. All participation in group discussions is optional. You will be on MUTE when you first arrive. We will not be able to hear you, unless you choose to unmute yourself.
What if I don't want to appear on video?
Your video will be turned OFF when you first arrive to the videoconference. We will not be able to see you unless you choose to turn on your video, and no one will pressure you to turn it on. If you don’t turn on your video, then we will see a small window with your name, phone number, or whatever name and image you choose to use in your Zoom profile.
What if I don't have video capability on my device?
You can still join the videoconference. We will know you are there because your name and/or phone number will display to others, with no images.
Can I just dial in using my phone?
Yes. Your phone number will be visible to those who are on the videoconference, even if you don’t have the ability to see it. You won’t have the full range of features available to those who are using the Zoom app.
Can I invite others?
Yes. Please send them the link to these instructions, so they can opt in to the mailing list.
Who will be there, Caroline or Dale?
Dale and I will both be present for most work parties. Usually, Dale facilitates the breakout room for those who want to be more interactive while working, and I facilitate the group that wants to co-work independently and quietly. This is subject to each of our availability and the format may change.
Interested? Here’s what to do.
This is an OPT IN program. If you want to receive email announcements about the work parties, you MUST click on this link to subscribe to my newsletter (even if you think you are already a subscriber) and then choose your preferences, accordingly.
The easiest way to learn about this is to just come and see how it works. We’re a friendly bunch! Whether we meet at a work party or not, Dale and I wish the best for you and your loved ones during this difficult time.
Thanks,
Caroline Totah