COVID-19 has brought many changes to our lives. We all miss the sense of community. Spending time with neighbors and friends. Participating in school related activities. Being with family. But let’s not forget our work community – and the value of TPRM community.
The workplace was where our co-workers help us think through issues or discuss how to approach a particular challenge. Rather than being spontaneous, collaborating with co-workers now takes scheduling and online web platforms. This has dramatically reduced the likelihood that we will get the support we have come to rely on from the office environment.
For those used to being in an office setting, the lack of community and collaboration can be a significant challenge. A 2017 study by Harvard Business School concluded lack of close contact hinders three key ingredients in any effective working relationship: the formation of trust, connection, and mutual purpose.
Those of us who are accustomed to working from a home office are better suited than most to make the adjustment. I have primarily worked out of a home office for many years now and while I have made the adjustment, I must admit that I still routinely yearn for the insight and collaboration of being with my peers in an office setting.
I believe the recent growth Shared Assessments is seeing in Committee and Working Group participation is the direct result of this phenomenon. Having the opportunity to share knowledge with peers has never been more important as we adjust to the increased risks posed by a primarily remote work force, infrastructure challenges (who hasn’t experienced an online meeting issue?), and the need to move on-site assessments to a completely virtual environment.
The Shared Assessments community has always offered substantial networking benefits and peer support. But rather than supplementing in person office support, it is now one of the primary ways you can stay connected – to find that essential trust, connection and mutual purpose in our work. Our Committees and Working Groups go beyond the development of the Shared Assessments Tools and include a wide variety of third party issues: from regulatory issues and best practices, to privacy concerns and industry specific TPRM forums.
Feeling disconnected? Find the value of TPRM community – join one of our many committees or attend a Member Forum call. Take a look at the member (and non-member) opportunities for participation listed on our web site or contact Laura Waller (laura@santa-fe-group.com) to understand all of the benefits of the Shared Assessments community. I think you’ll be pleased you did.
