The need that we noticed
Since working from home became the new normal, most of us have started to miss the casual discussions at the workplace and just being around other people. Some of us started to feel lonely, or like we haven’t used our voice at all during the day. Simple “water cooler talk” started missing from our lives. Even as little as computer noises from others.
We created the Tea Time chat in Discord as a low-effort way to talk to other people and feel less alone in these times. In the afternoon, some time around 14.30 EET we join the Tea Time voice channel and chat about various things. There’s no rules, you can come and go whenever you want and discuss whatever you like! Sometimes the chat goes on for hours (once or twice until after 19:00 XD), so just check in the afternoon to see if we’re still there, we might 🙂
Why should I join?
One great experience we have had during the Tea Time was that, for example, we started talking about professional development and progress. One participant was struggling with figuring out exactly what they want to do in the Industry when they graduate. Others started talking about how they got to where they are now and talking about how their career path is not necessarily a straight line. We loved hearing that this conversation helped share a light into what the future in the Industry may look like for different people. It comes in all shapes and colors, and what works for one can be different for someone else. Sharing with others is a great way to bond and find what works for oneself.
Another great thing which happens on the side is: We get to practice speaking in English! Some of us can practice diction and eloquence, tone of voice and also practice delivering lines without telling so many side stories in between.
For some people it’s a good way to focus on work if you have issues from working at home. It can give you some structure to your day or the break you always forget to take otherwise! Talking about your work can also make you feel more confident in what you’re doing or if you’re fighting a difficult bug, taking a break with other people might help you get some new ideas.
How does it work?
At around 14:30 EET every weekday anyone can tag @TeaTime on the #text channel (Located on the Voice Channel category) and “summon” the rest of us. Because we all are working or studying, sometimes we need the little nudge from someone to start it up.
To be pinged automatically for Tea Time, you can go to the #rules channel and react with the Tea emoji on the message to be awarded the role.
Everyone is of course welcome to come and go as they want or need. Talk or just listen! As much or as little as you see fit. So please do come and join us in Discord: https://discord.gg/Q2YmW4k
Have an idea of other activities we could do online? Let us know!
Authors: Barbara and Essi.