Proven Strategies for Stronger, Happier Teams: Transforming Workplace Culture - ep. #010

How do you create a thriving culture when your team rarely meets in person? In this episode of the Return to People podcast, Kaleem Clarkson sits down with HR leader Jessica Lorello to unpack the realities of building connection, engagement, and trust in a fully remote environment. Jessica shares the hidden weight of “culture switching,” the constant adaptation employees face when navigating different communication styles and expectations across teams. This challenge often leaves people feeling drained and prevents them from building the deeper relationships that fuel collaboration and satisfaction, shining light on the delicate balance remote teams must strike between flexibility and connection. While employees love the autonomy of working from anywhere, they also crave in-person bonding, even if organizing off-sites can be difficult. At the same time, Jessica highlights what’s working well in her organization. A deliberate and thoughtful onboarding process gives new hires the chance to ease in gradually, focusing first on relationships and context rather than overwhelming tasks. She emphasizes that those first weeks are decisive in shaping whether someone feels like they belong, and whether they see a future with the company. Communication, too, plays a critical role. Jessica explains that successful distributed teams don’t leave it to chance; they set clear expectations for how information is shared and how collaboration happens, ensuring everyone stays connected no matter where they work. Workplace culture doesn’t just happen, it’s built intentionally, through choices about how teams onboard, connect, and communicate. Jessica’s insights reveal that while remote work introduces unique challenges, it also creates opportunities to design experiences that truly put people first. An inspiring episode for leaders and teams navigating the future of work, offering a candid look at the strategies and mindsets that make remote culture both sustainable and human. 👉 Tune in to hear Jessica’s perspective on transforming remote workplaces into connected, thriving communities. Learn more about Jessica: Jessica´s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lorello-phr-60a51142/ 1440 Media: https://join1440.com/contact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices