Company of all sizes has welcomed remote working as the new norm. While this is not an entirely new concept, it grew in popularity over the last few months or years. Some companies needed to move to a 100% work-from-home setup, while others managed to mix it up with an office setup. But one thing is obvious; remote working is here to stay.
According to some surveys, some businesses declared their workforce would permanently work from home. It’s also found that this work arrangement resulted in more hours worked without a significant negative effect on workplace productivity. Still, business owners or employers should ensure that their remote employees get the work done on time. Explore below what strategies can be performed to ensure that.
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Create daily check-ins
Having a daily check-in routine with your team is critical to keep the connections strong and ensure the priorities are getting done. You can do a morning check-in via instant messages, phone calls, or video chats and do it in small groups or one-on-one sessions.
To maintain regular virtual meetups, your team needs to be equipped with the right tools and tech. For instance, you will need to use a reliable video conferencing app to conduct a virtual all-hands meeting with the team. As for you, it’s important that you’re always present on any communication apps the team uses. You can set virtual office hours for more convenience.
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Provide efficient tech and tools
Now, speaking of tech and tools, you need to ensure that your departments and everyone under them are equipped with what they need to work efficiently and connect almost instantly. In a work-from-home setup, the managers and staff members should be on the same page at all times.
First off, make sure that the provided computers are in tip-top shape, all the software or platforms are updated, and everyone has access to project management, video conferencing, and messaging apps. At the same time, you should also ensure that your employee’s home has functional areas where they can work efficiently. Other companies give their employees a home office stipend for additional support.
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Trust your people
Many companies implement stricter or tighter guidelines for remote working. This isn’t totally wrong, but it’s not a good idea to put your remote employees under bigger pressure to get their work done. Business consultants recommend putting more trust into your team when it comes to performing their tasks. You can build your trust using your management skills, communication skills, and, most importantly, behavior.
If you are struggling to excel as a manager or finding it hard to eliminate negative behavior within the team, it’s best to speak to a business development consultant. Such an expert can help you manage your team with trust while creating a positive and productive culture.
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Provide more flexibility
Most organizations and companies forced to transfer to remote working focus on factors such as technology issues, legal considerations, and working expectations. But one element that can actually help the business thrive is flexibility. Business experts suggest that instead of setting policies regarding how people should work, managers should put out guidelines to help their team members function in new ways.
Check if the current remote work policy promotes flexibility to the staff. For instance, instead of concentrating on time-based factors to assess the performance of the remote employees, focus on their work output and weekly or monthly goal achievement. If possible, give your team members the opportunity to work during the hours they feel motivated as long as they get the tasks done on schedule.
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Establish non-work interactions
Another great way to promote productivity and motivation in your remote teams is through non-work exercises and talks. Start a good conversation with your team members and have a good laugh. This is an excellent way to promote more frequent interactions with the employees and create a space for them to share their interests, hobbies, and other personal topics.
If your staff members feel more comfortable and happier in their work environment, they are more likely to be productive and satisfied. You can host virtual team building activities or plan simple happy hours.
Remote working should not be a reason to see a decline in the productivity of your workforce. It is, in fact, an opportunity to work with greater efficiency and flexibility. Acknowledge the challenges within your team and explore innovative ways to continue steady connection and collaboration. This allows you to maintain not only productivity but also the satisfaction and happiness of your team members.
