Rapid digitization and the uncertainties of covid 19 have led to the emergence of the remote work environment. Here, employees and managers communicate and contract virtually to perform online work operations outside the office, from the comfort of their homes. Over the passage of time, remote work has gained popularity as it increases flexibility, saves costs, Pools worldwide talent and improve overall productivity. As remote workers work from home, to make them equally effective as on-site workers, there is a need to manage them properly. Therefore, managing remote teams is crucial for maximizing the benefits and reducing challenges to align with the company’s goals.
8 key steps for effectively managing a remote workforce
1- Clarify expectations and goals
Setting clear expectations is one of the critical steps towards remote team collaboration. Explain the goals that are expected to be achieved by each remote worker, and structure the whole remote work policies and guidelines for your virtual teams, such as working hours, security, and compensation. Communicate the company’s goals with transparency so that virtual teams can clearly understand their duties and work while keeping those goals in mind.
2- Monitor the work regularly
Remote work leadership includes tracking the number of hours worked by using time tracking tools, scheduling check-ins, promoting remote workers to report on the progress and complexities themselves, making them accountable by asking for weekly compulsory reports, and holding team meetings for discussion on shared goals.
3- Find smooth Communication channels
Frequent and direct communication is extremely important for helping remote employees understand their work, keeping them actively engaged, and resolving their confusion regarding work. To ensure regular communication, provide complete communication information such as the mode and the timing of communication, and the expected frequency of replies to the company’s emails and messages. It’s a good idea to use various remote communication tools based on the circumstances and needs, such as Microsoft Teams, Slack messaging, Zoom or email, to foster remote team collaboration.
4- Build a strong remote culture
Building a strong remote culture means creating a friendly and satisfactory work environment for virtual workers. An inclusive environment generates trust and connection even from a distance. Despite managing remote workers, it is essential for the long-term growth of the company. Some of the elements to build a strong remote culture are
Open channels, regular check-ins, public holidays, virtual coffee chats, mental and physical health tips, etc.
Another way of managing remote teams includes giving regular feedback based on the employees’ contributions; it will help them improve gradually. Never hesitate to celebrate accomplishments, as it motivates them and make them feel valuable.
5- Try using the right tracking tools and technology
Managers can take advantage of various tools and technologies to encourage remote team productivity. These tools facilitate various tasks, ensuring effective management of remote employees. Therefore, consider using Asana, Twist, or Monday.com for project management; Toggl or Clockify for time management; Google Drive or Zoom for collaboration; and SharePoint or Dropbox for sharing files and documents smoothly.
6- Ensure flexibility and promote work-life balance
One of the effective remote work strategies that should be exercised by all remote employers is giving autonomy. Make your employees work according to their own schedule, allowing them to manage their remote work easily in correspondence with their personal life. Support them in promoting work-life balance to help them feel a sense of connectivity with you.
7- Invest in the training of remote employees
Remote employees can contribute more to the company if you empower them with the required knowledge and skills. Training in remote communication tools, time management, goal setting, and cybersecurity will develop their remote work efficiency.
8- Make efforts for their social interactions
Many times, remote workers feel isolated and depressed, which can hamper their overall productivity. Encourage virtual events and activities, make informal groups for them to talk and hang out, and help them build a connection with their co-workers.
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