'They Trigger MORE Stress': Man Shreds Corporations' Necessary Digital Blissful Hours

Companies do everything possible to keep employees happy and motivated at work from home. However, let's be clear that some of their tactics are actually harmful to working parents.

As the nation grows used to working remotely indefinitely - or at least a few more months - employers have had to adjust expectations, workflow, and schedules. However, in their efforts to restore the pre-pandemic working environment, many companies have bombarded their employees with virtual happy hours, constant check-ins and unnecessary zoom meetings. At the end of the day, when our kids are melting and work deadlines are approaching, we need more understanding and empathy than forced attachment.

A remote job coach figured out how these mandatory meetings make employees more stressful. Jordan Carroll, a member of the Forbes Coaches Council and remote YouTuber from Playa del Carmen, Mexico, gave LinkedIn a concise message for all employers.

“While relying on Zoom meetups and team games to connect, many employees cause MORE stress, especially when they feel like they can't log out without being punished.

“And it's not to say that you shouldn't have bizarre fun at your remote workplace.

But make no mistake ...

”❌ It's not about" fluffy "things like memes, GIFs and virtual water coolers.

”✅ It's about clear expectations and output-based metrics.

”❌ It's not about more meetings and check-ins because there is a lack of trust.

"✅ It's about more autonomy for employees to do their work and also to decide what to do outside of work."

We couldn't have said it better ourselves. While the effort is there, employers likely didn't know how hard it can be to squash smiles and small talk in an hour when we could finish a report or care for a fussy toddler. After all, mothers at work are twice as likely to be affected by the pandemic as fathers.

For those who enjoy these events, more power for them. They can be a great way to get in touch with coworkers you haven't seen in months and get a quick break from work. But please make them optional. There are better ways employers can help parents.