When the global pandemic forced people out of their jobs and into home offices, Integrata was no exception. We worked remotely throughout the spring, but during the summer some people returned to the office while others continued to work remotely from home. 

The impact of the corona pandemic on people in Integrata has been very mixed. Others have found many good things about being remote, such as the time saved by not having to travel to work. Many have also said that it is better to concentrate on precision work at home. Some, however, have clearly longed to return to the office. 

In remote meetings, moods are not conveyed

We have worked hard to ensure that people have the opportunity to get to know and keep in touch with their team and colleagues, even when they are working remotely. However, distance is particularly visible in teamwork. I find that meetings are not quite as fluid and not everyone is necessarily comfortable to speak their mind when they are on the line. Weekly and mood meetings in particular are a challenge for some people and do not necessarily convey the right emotions. So at this point it felt very natural to jump into the world of SmoothTeam simulations. 

Using simulations to open up conversations 

I was immediately inspired by the SmoothTeam simulations. They allow conversations to open up quickly, even if not everyone knows each other well beforehand. The simulations have also helped new team members to get up to speed quickly and get to know their team. In fact, almost every team has a simulation scheduled for the moment when a new employee starts with us. 

Simulations also get people talking who might not normally open up. Conversations can also get really deep and people who have been working with each other for a long time have learned a lot about each other. I am amazed every time I do a simulation! It's really nice to get to know your colleagues better. 

An enthusiastic reception

People have welcomed SmoothTeam with great enthusiasm and enthusiasm. The positive experience has made other teams want to try the simulations. We have done simulations live in the office or remotely. Even the remote simulation has worked well, although I was initially sceptical about remote implementation. 

It is easier to work together when you understand your colleague's ways of working

The more people know about each other's ways of doing things, the easier it is to do things together. Then others will understand what you are like and what you like. Simulations also help to tell you what people are really thinking. I was very pleased to see that almost everyone who tested the simulation gave something of themselves. It also creates psychological safety, which is something we've really emphasised at Integra. 

SmoothTeam will certainly benefit all sectors where teamwork is involved. You can learn more about your teammates in a couple of hours than you would normally over a much longer period of time.

Satu Niinimäki

Welfare and protein jobs

Integrata is an HR house of just over 100 people, where expert work is done with a big heart; seriously, but not seriously. We have offices in Tampere, Helsinki and Pori.